Garrett hired as Athens Razors new coach - by Gianni PascucciNew ABA franchise The Athens Razors announced the hiring of experienced Lionel Garrett as the team Head Coach. Garrett had a succesful collegiate career at Southern U in Baton Rouge, La. He dominated the SWAC Conference from 75-79, being named to the All-SWAC team 3 years leading the SWAC in Rebounding his senior season (15.8). After signing with the San Diego Clippers' when picked in the '79 NBA Draft, Garrett hung his brim with the Harlem Globetrotters rebounding for the Hall Of Fame team worldwide. He then played overseas and in CBAGarrett started his coaching career spending six years as an assistant at Miles College in Birmingham. Eventually, Garrett coached in the CBA, NAIA and in NCAA. His last coaching stop was at the Marietta Storm, in WBA league, last year.

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ADRIATIC LEAGUE

Hemofarm inks big guy Mladen Pantic - by Eurobasket NewsMladen Pantic (209-C-82, agency: Alti Sport) will continue his career in Hemofarm. They signed a one-year deal today. Pantic heads to Hemofarm from Igokea, where he spent last season. He appeared 24 times in Adriatic league averaging 7.9 points and 3.5 rebounds. Pantic also added 7.5 ppg and 3.7 rpg for 11 games in Bosnian league. Three Igokea reached Playoff Finals. Before Igokea, Mladen Pantic spent one season with Radnicki Kragujevac. He had 9.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg for them in Adriatic league. In Serbian league his numbers increased to 10.1 ppg and 3.1 rpg. In the past, Mladen Pantic played for Kavala, Mega Hypo Leasing and ALBA Berlin. He also played couple of years to FMP winning the Adriatic league title with them in 2006.

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AFRICAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

26th Afrobasket: Tunisia overrun South Africa 94-50 - by Olusegun IkuesanTunisia lived up to its rating as one of the top favourites for the 26th edition of FIBA Africa Championship title when it over-run South Africa by 94-50 points in the round of eight finals.

The FIBA Africa Zone-1 power-house and third in the 2009 beat South Africa to the four quarters by 17-13, 24-13, 27-10 and 26-15 points to set up a quarter finals clash with the winner of the eight round final game between Mali and Morocco.

Other Tunisian players who recorded double score figure against the South Africans included Marouan Kechrid who scored 12 points with the duo of Radhouane Slimane and Mohamed Ghyaza contributinf 10 points each.

26th Afrobasket: Guy power Cote dIvoire over Rwanda 80-72 - by Olusegun IkuesanComing from two quarters down in the eight final round of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men Cote dIvoire powered by Guy Edi who netted championship high of 34 points as the 2009 runner-up roam into the quarter final with 80-72 points over Rwanda.

Taking a 33-44 points deficit into the break Cote dIvoire roar back like a wounded Elephant to raid the offense area of Rwanda resulting in the Ivorians winning the third and fourth quarters by 25-18 and 22-10 points respectively.

Edi was joined on the scorer chart by guard Souleyman Diakate who poured in 16 points gave 5 assists grabbed 4 rebounds and stole the ball from Rwanda players four times with centre Mohamed Kone scoring 15 points and 7 rebounds.

Cote dIvoire will battle the winner of the eight final round between Senegal and host Moadagascar in the quarter-finla on Wednesday at the Palais des Sports, Antananarivo.

26th Afrobasket: Cote DIvoire battle Rwanda for Q/Final ticket - by Olusegun IkuesanCote DIvoire will take on Rwanda in the next round of eight finals at 12H300 Wednesday in continuation of the 26th edition of FIBA Africa Championship for Men at the Palais des Sports, Antananarivo, Madagascar.

The 2009 runner-up finish second behind Cameroon in group-C while Rwanda complete its first round games with a third place finish.

Tunisia and South Africa will slug it out at 15H00 as the competition gets tougher.

Tunisia third in the last edition of the championship in Libya must guide its loin as the South African are capable of springing surprises while at 17H30 five-time champion, Senegal will have not only Madagascar to play but the voferous fans that throng the Palais des Sports especially when their team is playing.

Senegal appear as one of the favourite to win the 26th edition of Afrobasket which is a special edition considering the fact that FIBA Africa is celebrating its fifty years of existence and the last game of the Eight Final Round will be between Mali and Morocco at 20H00

26th Afrobasket: Angola Coach, Gomez sacked - by Olusegun IkuesanHead coach of the Angola senior national team Michel Gomez became the first casualty at the ongoing 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men in Antananarivo Madagascar as he was given the matching order for losing to Senegal last Saturday in a group-B and only manage to go past Mozambique in the Eight Final Round on Tuesday.

His assistant Coach Jaime Covilha has been mandated to take charge of the team in the run up to the quarter final clash against Cameroon on Thursday.

26th Afrobasket: Senegal thru to Q/Finals beat Madagascar 92-75 - by Olusegun IkuesanSenegal picked the seventh quarter final ticket with a 92-75 points victory over host Madagascar on Wednesday at the Palais des Sports of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men.

The bigger and stronger Senegalese took the first three quarters by 26-13, 21-19 and 25-20 points to take a 20 points advanteg of 72-52 going into the last quarter as the Madagascan mounted pressure on the Senegalese side in the fourth quarter culminating in them losing the quarter by 20-23 points for a final score-line of 92-75 points.

Senegal will keep a date with Cote dIvoire in the second quarter-final on Thursday.

26th Afrobasket: Mali kiss the dust, lose to Morocco - by Olusegun IkuesanAfter securing an early lead of 20-11 points in the first quarter of the last eight final round against Morocco Mali failed to lift its game thus allowing the Moroccan to over-run it from the second quarter losing by 08-22, 20-24 and 11-23 points for a cumulative scores of 59-80 points.

Morocco now has a date against fellow FIBA Africa Zone-1 side and second runner-up in the 2009 edition of the Afrobasket, Tunisia on Thursday at the Palais des Sports Antananarivo, Madagascar.

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ALBANIA

Capljina signs Albanian big guy Gerti Shima - by Eurobasket NewsGerti Shima (205-F/C-86) is a new member of Capljina. The Albanian power forward/center penned a one-year deal with the Bosnian outfit. He heads to Capljina from Sport Klub Tirana. Shima helped them win the Albanian league title last season. Shima played for AS Prishtine from 2006 to 2008. Before that he was a member of Valbona Tropoje. In 2005/06 season Gerti Shima shined with 16.3 ppg and 5.8 rpg in four EuroCup Challenge games. Shima helped Valbona Tropoje to win Albanian league titles in both years (2005, 2006). They also celebrated in Albanian Cup in 2005. Gerti Shima is active member of the Albanian National Team.

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ANGOLA

26th Afrobasket: Angola Coach, Gomez sacked - by Olusegun IkuesanHead coach of the Angola senior national team Michel Gomez became the first casualty at the ongoing 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men in Antananarivo Madagascar as he was given the matching order for losing to Senegal last Saturday in a group-B and only manage to go past Mozambique in the Eight Final Round on Tuesday.

His assistant Coach Jaime Covilha has been mandated to take charge of the team in the run up to the quarter final clash against Cameroon on Thursday.

NT PG Pablo Prigioni returns to Caja Laboral - by Eurobasket NewsArgentinean point guard Pablo Prigioni (191-G-77) returned to Caja Laboral after two years with Real Madrid. He signed a one-year deal with his new/old club. Prigioni appeared 18 times in Euroleague last season for Real Madrid averaging 5.4 points, 2.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists. They reached Final Four. In Spanish league Prigioni collected 5.8 ppg, 2.6 rpg and 3.7 apg. There, Real Madrid was also stopped in the Semifinals. From 2003 to 2009, Pablo Prigioni was a member of Tau Ceramica (now Caja Laboral). He helped them win ACB title in 2008. They also won the Spanish Cup in 2004, 2005 and 2009. Before Tau, Prigioni played for Alicante, Fuenlabrada and Obras Sanitarias. He is active member of the Argentinean National Team since 2003.

Argentina recorded a comfortable win over Cuba on the second day of Oscar Moglia Cup in Uruguay. Pablo Espinoza (195-F-87) stepped up with 22 points to lead the effort. Argentina improved at 2-0 record, while Cuba fell at 0-2. Argentina limited their opponents to just 8 points in the opening frame to pile up an 11-point buffer. The margin kept on growing throughout the second stanza. Argentina ensured a comfortable 19-point lead at the interval 38:19. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third term. Argentina entered the fourth frame up by as many as 19 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Marcos Mata (202-F-86) notched 15 points, while Alejandro Alloatti (203-F/C-84) had 13 points in the win. Orestes Torres (202-C-87) replied with 11 points for Cuba. Yorman Polas (192-F-85) had 10 points in the losing effort.

Obras Sanitarias add Larry Lewis - by Eurobasket NewsLarry Lewis (201-F-69, college: Morehouse) will move to Argentina in the next season. The experienced forward has agreed on terms of contract with Obras Sanitarias. Last season Larry Lewis spent in Spain. He averaged 5.9 points and 3.0 rebounds per game in Manresa. Larry Lewis spent the bigger part of his career in Spain. The forward also played in Japan.

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AUSTRALIA

Thunder's season ends on high note - by Eurobasket NewsA LONG season for the Thunder ended on a positive note as it snapped a 13-game losing streak by defeating Albury Wodonga, 99-68 on Saturday night.The win followed a tough three- point loss to Dandenong on Friday night and sees the Thunder finish the season with a 6-20 record, second last in the South Conference.

Thunder coach Phil Thomas was thrilled his side was able to finish the season on a high.

'It was a good weekend, I suppose you could say we were pretty unlucky against Dandenong, we had our chances to win that one,' he said.

'But the team played very well and we found that bit of consistency we've been looking for.

'That was probably the difference over the weekend, we've come to expect from people like Nick Haywood (184-G-80) our captain, Shawntes Gary and Eric Gaff, but I think if you look at the stats from the weekend, Ryan Williams (194-G/F-88) and Dylan Warren in particular, Steve Poulter and even Joel Beveridge, they all contributed in some way.

'And that was the difference between a really good performance against Dandenong and a 31-point win against Albury Wodonga.'

Gary and Gaff may have put up the big numbers, but it was Nick Haywood who drew the most praise from Thomas.

'I think for me the most outstanding part of the weekend was Nick Haywood's leadership,' he said.

'He really matured in that position and even though Shawntes was great and Eric was fantastic, his leadership on the floor was a big part in us having a successful weekend.

'Nick continues to grow into that position and I see him becoming one of the best leaders in the competition.'

Thomas said he was happy with the growth he had seen in his young team over the course of the season.

'Even in the Friday night game, we were in a position to win the game, but to their credit they beat us fair and square,' he said.

'We still have those opportunities though and I think with the growth of the team, given that position in 12 months time, we'll win those games.

'I think the program has a bright future.'Courtesy of: theadvocate.com.au

Big V State Award Night Nominees Announced - by Eurobasket NewsWe have seen some brilliant basketball in 2K11 and now we have an opportunity to award the best players and coaches for the year.

Ikaros gets bigger with Aron Baynes - by Eurobasket NewsIkaros announced signing of a one-year deal with Aron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St.). The Australian big guy heads to Greece from the German team EWE Baskets Oldenburg, where he spent last season. He had 6.8 ppg and 3.7 rpg for them in 40 league games. In EuroCup, Baynes was much better adding 13.4 ppg and 5.6 rpg for five games. Aron Baynes played for Lietuvos Rytas in 2009/10 season. He helped them win Lithuanian title and Cup. For 27 games in LKL Bayes averaged 9.3 points and 3.6 rebounds. He also added 5.5 ppg and 3 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. It was the first season as a pro for Baynes. He graduated at the Washington State University two years ago. Baynes is active member of the Australian National Team.

'The Sydney Kings eleventh man is Martin Iti. He weighs in at 109kg, stands 213cm, (7'0') tall and, with a wingspan of 226cm (7'5'), his reach is wider than he is tall. This is one big and tall basketballer, which is just what we need,' Robilliard said.

During the 2010 New Zealand NBL season, despite being plagued by injury and playing limited minutes, Iti's per-game averages for the Southland Sharks remained strong 9.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks.

Born on February 28, 1983, to a Nigerian father and New Zealand mother, 28 year-old Martin Iti has had a basketball career that as taken him around the world.

After leaving Australia at the age of 15, he made a new home in the United States, where he attended Mount Zion Christian Academy, before graduating as the top high school Centre in the country and attending University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

After two years, Iti moved from Charlotte to attend New Mexico State University where, again, he impressed his coaching staff and the fans with his height and basketball skills.

During his collegiate career, Iti soon made an impact to the point where ESPN recognised him as the eighth best recruit in the nation in his year at high school. He was also matched up against many players, who have gone on to have stellar careers in the NBA, including Lebron James.

Robilliard said that signing Iti to the Sydney Kings would primarily be a great support to returning Centre, Julian Khazzouh and import Jerai Grant.

'Martin Iti has some pretty impressive physical attributes, as well as international experience from his time in the United States, Europe and, most recently in New Zealand, which makes him a good fit for the Sydney Kings,' Robilliard said.

'Already, we are seeing Martin performing well in practice sessions, as assertively as we expect him to play on the courts. He has the height and the reach to intimidate, and we are excited to be able to offer Martin a professional contract in Australia.

'The Sydney Kings has a very competitive and very deep roster for the 2011-2012 season and we are looking forward to the start of the season against Melbourne. We are focussing on a number of key areas that let us down last season, we will be more aggressive with our defence, and we will be able to comptete with far more vigour on the boards. Both aspects of our game will lead to us increasing our scoring ability,' Robilliard said.

Speaking about his signing to the Sydney Kings, Martin Iti said that playing for the Sydney Kings is a great opportunity.

'I think that secretly almost every NBL player would like to play a season or two in the purple and gold. The team has a certain charisma. The fans and opposing players either love or hate the Sydney Kings, but whatever your position, you have to respect them,' Iti said.

'I've been practicing with the team all week and, I gotta tell you, the other guys lift you up and keep pushing each other to be better. They are a very, very competitive group and selfless in their game. That is an amazing combination and I am already loving being part of the roster.

'I want to try and be more of a scorer this year. I can score, when I want to. I need to be more accurate and be the go-to guy.

'The team keep telling me about the Sydney fans and about the atmosphere in at the Sydney Entertainment Centre. I can't wait to get out there. I think it is going to be an awesome experience,' Iti said.

Zalgiris Kaunas signs Vytas Sulskis, loans him to Rupidis - by Eurobasket NewsZalgiris Kaunas announced signing of Vytas Sulskis (200-G-88) to a long-term deal. They will send him on loan to Rupidis for the next season. This is the first professional deal for Sulskis, who graduated at the Youngstown State University few months ago. He appeared 30 times for his school as a senior averaging 13.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2 assists. Sulskis was one of the better Youngstown State players also as a junior. He had 11.3 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 1.8 apg for 30 games that season. Vytas Sulskis moved to the US during the high school education and in 2007 joined Youngstown State University. He had 9 ppg and 4.4 rpg for them as a freshman. Sulskis was named Horizon League All-Newcomer Team -08. In 2007, he was awarded with HS Florida Dairy Farmers Class 1A Player of the Year.

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BELARUS

Belarus edged Romania in Cluj-Napoca, both finished with 4-4 record - by Eurobasket NewsRomania-Belarus 65:85

Belarus edged Romania in Cluj-Napoca, both finished with 4-4 record the Division B of the European Championship. Belarus needed 85:65 to finish on the step higher. The teams exchanged the lead several times in the opening period, while Aliakseyeu closed it at 19:18. Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) nailed three for 23:23, but then it was hard to follow Belarus. The latter erupted with 21-12 to take 40:30 at the halftime. The guests never looked behind after that and even increased the lead in the second half. The offensive 30-19 in the third quarter brought them 70:49 after three quarters. Romania managed to win the last stanza 16-15, but could reduce only to 20 points. Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) paced all the winners with 16 points, while Dzianis Korshuk (201-F-78, agency: Agency No 10) netted 11. Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79), Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) and Dmitri Paliashchuk (197-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) had 10 points each in a win. Ionut Dragusin ended up with 14 points in the losing effort and Andrei Capusan (201-F-83, agency: Court Side, college: Lafayette) posted 12.

Bosna ASA BHT brings is Sven Smajlagic - by Eurobasket NewsBosna ASA BHT announced signing of Sven Smajlagic (193-G-90). The Croatian guard penned a deal for the next season. Smajlagic heads to Bosna from Zabok, where he finished 2010/11. He joined them in January averaging 7.2 points and 1.9 rebounds for 22 games. Smajlagic started the season with Cibona, but appeared just few times with them. Before Cibona, Sven Smajlagic spent one year with the Bosnian team Novi Grad Atal Sarajevo. He also has experience from Rudes Zagreb and Cibona junior team. Sven Smajlagic played for U18 and U16 Croatian NT in the past. He helped them win the Bronze at the European Championships U18 in Amaliada Pyrgos (Greece) -08. Smajlagic registered 7.3 ppg and 2.4 rpg for 8 games at this event.

Varda explains true reasons of his departure - by Nedzad KladusakIt s been a kind of a earthquake as Ratko Varda decided to leave the NT camp since he was expected to become the key player for the upcoming EC in Lithuania.He didn t want to give any comments on the reasons for his sudden departure but after KSBIH claimed that he asked for a 25 minutes playtime guarantee he explained the reasons for his decision.After a series of lost and poorly played games in Slovenia he asked Sabit Hadzic what he is supposed to do and which system has been chosen by Hadzic. Hadzic couldn t specify the kind of system he wants to be played and replied ' The system I want to be played'. Varda who has been coached by coaches of Real Madrid, Zalgiris, Pistons felt the incompetence and basic ethics of Hadzic and since he played for teams other players of our NT will only watch on TV he decided to leave the camp.Despite the statements of KSBIH that Varda is not fit he signed only three days later a contract with the slovenian powerhouse Union Olimpija presenting KSBIH like a band of clowns.

Everyone who watched the game against Germany last night has seen that there is no vision, no discipline and plenty of egoism in the BIH NT. Teletovic, Djedovic and Gordic have shot more balls than the rest of the team! Teletovic and the self-proclaimed leader Djedovic made only 3 of 14 threepointers. I am not talking about shots in the 18th second, standing 7m away from the basket, almost undefended since the ball circulated very well. No we are talking about shots against one, two or three sevenfooters in the 5 th second of your attack or shots from 9m while your teammate is left wide-open. I don t know what Hadzic told them but it seems to be something like ' you are my go-to-guy, you are the chosen one. Forget about your center when you play pick n roll. Dunk over the MVP of the NBA or one of the best centers in the NBA! It doesn t matter that there is a center who is about 216cm with endless arms'. Many times Jazvin and Bavcic have set their sreens rolling for a easy lay up but they never got a pass of Djedovic or Gordic. It has been more than evident than Bajramovic and Teletovic can t guard a true center like Kaman who violently bumped Bajramovic and finished with a thunderous dunk. Kikanovic showed clearly why he has got a chance to become a good PF but also why he will never be a center or a substitution for Varda, Jazvin or Bavcic.

Djedovic still dreams his dream to become a european class SG. He is still young and maybe he will become a true SG but unless he doesn t correct his shooting mechanics he is only a very quick slashing but physically underdevelopped SF. The former German NT PG Pascal Roller noticed that the Bosnian offense is very unidimensional, simple, uninspired. Assuming that the coach defines the strategy of his team these attributes are not really flattering but correspond to the image of Hadzic. So it is not a surprise that Kapelan or Tuljkovic who can bring outstanding shooting talent or solid defense and athletic skills have never been part of the relevant set of Sabit Hadzic.

It seems that the upcoming EC will be a shooting session for a couple of players while most others will be only relevant for the team photograph.

Capljina signs Albanian big guy Gerti Shima - by Eurobasket NewsGerti Shima (205-F/C-86) is a new member of Capljina. The Albanian power forward/center penned a one-year deal with the Bosnian outfit. He heads to Capljina from Sport Klub Tirana. Shima helped them win the Albanian league title last season. Shima played for AS Prishtine from 2006 to 2008. Before that he was a member of Valbona Tropoje. In 2005/06 season Gerti Shima shined with 16.3 ppg and 5.8 rpg in four EuroCup Challenge games. Shima helped Valbona Tropoje to win Albanian league titles in both years (2005, 2006). They also celebrated in Albanian Cup in 2005. Gerti Shima is active member of the Albanian National Team.

Brazil and Dominican Republic are getting ready for the upcoming Fiba Americas Tournament. They played a friendly game in Foz De Iguazu. Marquinhos Vinicius (207-F-84) scored 14 points to pace the winners. Brazil and Dominican Republic stayed close throughout the opening quarter. They entered the second term tied at 20. Brazil pulled ahead in the second period. They established a 45:34 halftime at halftime. The hosts stretched the margin in the third frame. Brazil arrived at final break up by as many as 21 points 63:42. Dominican Republic narrowed the deficit in the fourth term but came up short at the end. Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) and Alexandre Garcia (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) accounted for 13 points each in the win. Wellington Santos (185-PG-81) provided 9 points for Brazil. Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut) answered with 18 points for Dominican Republic. Al Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) notched 13 points in the loss.

Italy pip Bulgaria at the start of the Acropolis Tournament - by Eurobasket NewsItaly-Bulgaria 74:71

Italy stun Bulgaria at the start of the Acropolis Tournament in Athens. In a game that remained carousel the Italian side grabbed 74:71 victory.Italy started the game with 21-16 lead at the end of the first period. Bulgaria then bounced back with 26-19 and took 42:40 at the halftime. Italy again took the lead back in the third quarter producing defensive 18-9. Bulgaria managed to win the last stanza, but lost by three. Bulgaria trailed 12 points and finished the game with 9-0 run. Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) paced all the winners with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) notched 18. Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) posted 16 and Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83) scored 11. Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) replied with 17 points and 10 rebounds in defeat, whilst Kaloyan Ivanov (205-F-86) notched 14. Bozhidar Avramov (196-G-90, agency: Interperformances) delivered 12 for Bulgaria and Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) added 11.

Levski bringing PAO to Bulgaria to commemorate legend Mladenov - by Maria MitzovaLevski Sofia will play a showcase game against the reigning champion Panathinaikos Athens on September 28th in the newly built Arena Armeec in Sofia. The game will commemorate the legendary Bulgarian player, a long time Levski Sofia guard Georgi Mladenov (agency: Global Sports Plaza ).Mladenov is now coaching Beroe, after being ahead of teams like Lukoil Akademic, Balkan and Bulgaria U20.The game between Levski Sofia and PAO is so far the first basketball game scheduled to be played in the new Arena Armeec.Mladenov hugely successful career will be honored by a lot other basketball stars. The last time such a benefit game was played in Bulgaria was long ago in 1987 when Atanas Golomeev gathered late Drajen Petrovic, Nikos Galis and others.Georgi Mladenov (agency: Global Sports Plaza ) was born on May 11, 1962. He has played 20 years on top level, most of them wearing the Levski Sofia jersey. Mladenov was also a long term member of the Bulgaria NT.

Greece destroyed the Bulgarian team in Day 2 of the Acropolis Tournament - by Eurobasket NewsGreece-Bulgaria 101:67

Greece destroyed the Bulgarian team in Day 2 of the Acropolis Tournament. The home side erupted with 101:67 for the second straight win. Greece continued their perfect performance in the preparation for Lithuania in the end of August. Greece grabbed massive 31:13 lead over Bulgaria and never looked behind after. They added 25-19 in the second frame for 56:32 at the halftime. Bulgaria reached 56 only at the end of the third period as they won the frame 24-18. Greece had 74 points at that time and produced another massive quarter at the end. With 27-11 the hosts reached three digit number and enjoyed 101:67 victory. Costas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) paced all the winners with 15 points, while Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-C-85, agency: FCM) netted 13. Michael Bramos (196-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) and Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) followed them with 11 points each. Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) and Nikolay Varbanov (209-C-85, agency: Interperformances) notched 11 apiece.

Moncton hoops owner believes in Miracles - by Eurobasket NewsWhat's in a name?

There's an historic reason why the city's new professional sports franchise is being called the Moncton Miracles. Steven Conville explained the thinking that went into naming the expansion team in the National Basketball League of Canada during a news conference Tuesdsay.

'No. 1, Miracles is the same word in English and French so it works well in that way,' said Conville, the team owner. 'No. 2, this is a team name that really connects with Moncton's history and symbolizes the strength, courage and toughness that this city has shown over the years.

'We want our basketball team to take on the same tenacity and team spirit that Moncton has shown to get to where it is today. Our team logo is meant to embody the strength that comes through when you rise above.

'The player in the logo carrying the ball is not wallowing in the past. He's heading towards the future and he's doing it ferociously. We're not just a bunch of people who try hard. We're people who try hard and succeed and we do it in a passionate way. We want this team so symbolize what Moncton is all about.'

The NBL Canada will have seven teams in its inaugural season. The others are the Saint John Mill Rats, Halifax Rainmen, Quebec Kebs, London Lightning, Oshawa Power and Summerside's club which hasn't yet been named.

Moncton will open the 36-game regular season on the road against Quebec on Oct. 29. The Miracles will play their first five outings in enemy territory before their home opener versus Saint John on Nov. 20 at the Moncton Coliseum.

The Moncton Miracle is a term commonly used to describe the city's rebound from recession in the mid 1980s to a thriving economy today.

Kevin Silliker, Moncton's business development officer, provided Conville with a tour of the city several weeks ago. It was during that tour that Silliker shared with him a piece of Moncton's history.

'Back in the mid 1980s, Moncton was going through a tough economic time,' said Conville. 'Then the people rallied together, reached out and pulled up to create a miracle. Moncton is now vibrant, it's entrepreneurial and it's a place to be envied. Not just in Canada, but in the world.

'Right now, while they're struggling all over the world with how to deal with these tough economic times people can look up to Moncton's example of how to do things the right way. We heard so much about the Moncton Miracle and the city's economic rebirth.

'We looked at different options, but kept coming back to Moncton Miracles because it's powerful and symbolizes what this city is about. We want to be more than just a basketball team. We want to do things that exemplify the city's spirit of growth, spirit of rebound, spirit of prosperity and spirit of community.'

Saint John, Halifax and Quebec left the Premier Basketball League following the 2011 season, found four new franchises and started the NBL Canada. The average attendance per game this past season was 4,000 in Halifax and 3,700 in Saint John.

NBL Canada franchises will have an annual operating budget of $500,000 to $750,000 and this includes a team salary cap of $150,000. There's 10-12 players per team with a minimum of two Canadians, training camps open in early October and the playoffs finish in mid March.

SENIOR MENS NATIONAL TEAM TRIMS ROSTER FOR BRAZILIAN TOURNAMENT - by John Garycourtesy basketball.ca The Senior mens national team has cut its roster to the 14 atheletes who will represent Canada at the Tuto marchland Contiental Cup in Foz de Iguazu Bravil from August 24-26. The tournament will be a tune up for the 2011 FIBA Americas Championchip August 30-Sept11 in Mar Del P_lata Argentina. at the Brazilian Tournament,the SMNT will begin play August 24th against the host team followed by puerto Rico and conclude on August 26th against the Domincan Republic. The SMNT roster for the TutoMarchland Cup is an impressive list of 14 players,featuring professionals who have played all over the world. it is highlighted by eight atheltesfrom last summers team including the NBAs joel Anthony{Montreal}.Anthony recently completed his fourth season in the NBA all of them with the miami Heat.

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CROATIA

Bosna ASA BHT brings is Sven Smajlagic - by Eurobasket NewsBosna ASA BHT announced signing of Sven Smajlagic (193-G-90). The Croatian guard penned a deal for the next season. Smajlagic heads to Bosna from Zabok, where he finished 2010/11. He joined them in January averaging 7.2 points and 1.9 rebounds for 22 games. Smajlagic started the season with Cibona, but appeared just few times with them. Before Cibona, Sven Smajlagic spent one year with the Bosnian team Novi Grad Atal Sarajevo. He also has experience from Rudes Zagreb and Cibona junior team. Sven Smajlagic played for U18 and U16 Croatian NT in the past. He helped them win the Bronze at the European Championships U18 in Amaliada Pyrgos (Greece) -08. Smajlagic registered 7.3 ppg and 2.4 rpg for 8 games at this event.

Zadar targets Goran Vrbanc and Barisa Krasic - by Eurobasket NewsZadar targets Goran Vrbanc (194-G-84) and Barisa Krasic (203-F-78) for the next season. Sports Director of the club Branko Skroce stated that Vrbanc and Krasic would be great reinforcements for Zadar and he said for Kosarka.org they already made some contacts with the players. However, it is just the beginning and deals are not even close to materialize. Goran Vrbanc spent last five years with Cibona Zagreb. He appeared 17 times for them in Croatian league last season averaging 9.5 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.1 assists. In Adriatic league Vrbanc added 6.7 ppg and 1.5 rpg in 24 games. He also had 5.4 ppg and 1.1 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. Barisa Krasic spent last season in Greece as a member of Ikaros. He had 4.6 ppg and 2 rpg for them in 22 games. Before Ikaros, Krasic spent one year with Cedevita and one with Keravnos. He played couple of years for Cibona in the past and Krasic also has experience from Panellinios and Artland Dragons Quakenbrueck.

Argentina recorded a comfortable win over Cuba on the second day of Oscar Moglia Cup in Uruguay. Pablo Espinoza (195-F-87) stepped up with 22 points to lead the effort. Argentina improved at 2-0 record, while Cuba fell at 0-2. Argentina limited their opponents to just 8 points in the opening frame to pile up an 11-point buffer. The margin kept on growing throughout the second stanza. Argentina ensured a comfortable 19-point lead at the interval 38:19. The teams exchanged baskets throughout the third term. Argentina entered the fourth frame up by as many as 19 points and never looked back en route to the victory. Marcos Mata (202-F-86) notched 15 points, while Alejandro Alloatti (203-F/C-84) had 13 points in the win. Orestes Torres (202-C-87) replied with 11 points for Cuba. Yorman Polas (192-F-85) had 10 points in the losing effort.

Handlova edged BK Proton Zlin in pre-season clashes - by Eurobasket NewsHandlova edged BK Proton Zlin in pre-season clashes to start the preparation for the next season. In Game 1 Handlova celebrated 78:59 victory. They started with 27-14, while both sides scored 14 points each in the second frame. The team from Czech Republic scored another 14 points in the third period and trailed 18 points after three quarters. Anthony Jones (194-G/F-84, college: Indiana Tech) stepped up with 28 points for the winners and Terlanda netted 13. Marcel Madaj (200-F-78) brought 12, while Tomas Mrvis (194-G/F-91) posted 8.In Game 2 Handlova won over BK Proton Zlin 75:66. The latter opened the game with 19-15, but could keep only 1-point advantage at the halftime. Handlova needed 16-13 in the third frame and 23-16 in the last to seal the victory. Anthony Jones again led the way with 23 points and Marcel Madaj posted 17. Paravinja delivered 13, whilst Ivan Barisic (201-C/F-84) had 12.

Switzerland wrapped up their European Championship in Division B Qualifying Round campaign with road win. They surprised Czech Republic in Decin tonight. Derek Stockalper (198-G/F-84, college: Cal Poly - SLO) scored 16 points to pace the winners. The teams traded baskets throughout close first period. The hosts eked out an 18:17 lead after ten minutes. However Buscaglia and Derek Stockalper put the Swiss team in front midway through the second term. Switzerland posted a 35:33 lead at the interval. The visitors capped the third term with six points in a row to boost the gap to 10 points 55:45. Kotas dragged Czech Republic within just two points 61:63 with just over a minute to go in regulation. But Jonathan Kazadi (195-G-91) hit two free throws to stretch the lead to four points 65:61. Pavel Houska (201-F-84) drained a triple but it was too late to save the game. David Ramseier (198-C-87) provided 14 points, while Jonathan Kazadi added 13 points for the winners. Pavel Houska responded with 16 points for Czech Republic. Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) netted 11 points in the loss.

Brazil and Dominican Republic are getting ready for the upcoming Fiba Americas Tournament. They played a friendly game in Foz De Iguazu. Marquinhos Vinicius (207-F-84) scored 14 points to pace the winners. Brazil and Dominican Republic stayed close throughout the opening quarter. They entered the second term tied at 20. Brazil pulled ahead in the second period. They established a 45:34 halftime at halftime. The hosts stretched the margin in the third frame. Brazil arrived at final break up by as many as 21 points 63:42. Dominican Republic narrowed the deficit in the fourth term but came up short at the end. Marcelinho Machado (199-F/G-75, agency: Interperformances) and Alexandre Garcia (191-G-80, agency: Interperformances) accounted for 13 points each in the win. Wellington Santos (185-PG-81) provided 9 points for Brazil. Charlie Villanueva (209-F-84, college: Connecticut) answered with 18 points for Dominican Republic. Al Horford (208-F/C-86, college: Florida) notched 13 points in the loss.

Last Liga results - by Jaime ArevaloIn the last games played in 'Liga de Baloncesto de El Salvador' UTEC defeated Chaleco Santa Tecla 88-71, Sann Marcos destroyed Roll Royce 96-74 and Denver triumphed over ExSal 84-66. Then, San Marcos played another game, winning this too, 86-83 over Leones, keeping the top of teh table. The standings are now as follows:

Division B: Estonia beats Holland, wins the group - by Janar The crowd of 6000 saw Estonian NT beating Holland 78:60 as Estonians secured the first place in group A of Eurobasket Division B. Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) made an amazing performance, scoring 28 points. Gert Dorbek added 18 points and made 5 steals. Rain Veideman scored 10, Kristjan Kangur 9 points + 11 rebounds. Estonians outrebounded the guests 47:45, grabbing huge 26 offensive rebounds (Holland - 17). Estonians made 12 three-pointers, the guests - 3.10:2 run took the guests ahead 17:14 in first quarter and led 23:16 with 12 minutes played. Dan Gadzuric had 9 pts already. Next six minutes belonged to Estonia as they outscored the opponents 14:2 and went ahead 30:25. The first half ended 34:29. In third, three-pointers by Dorbek, Arbet and Sten Sokk took the hosts ahead 45:35 but back-to-back baskets by Gadzuric made it 45:41. Estonia needed a victory by at least 9 points to win the group, so the pressure was on them, again. Then, Talts made 2+1, Arbet added another triple and Veideman two more three-pointers - 57:45 with a quarter to play. The hosts started the last quarter with a 7:2 run, going ahead 64:47 but the 'Oranje' team wasn't broken yet. They narrowed the gap to 11 points (64:53), meaning that they were only 3 points away from the group victory. But Gregor Arbet had the last laugh, scoring 12 points in last five minutes and took the hosts to a firm victory.Dan Gadzuric led the Dutch team with 18+11rbs+3 blocks. Robin Smeulders added 12 points. NBA player Francisco Elson had only 8 points.

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EUROLEAGUE

VEF Riga land Marque Perry - by Eurobasket NewsMarque Perry (185-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: St.Louis) will continue his career in Latvia. The 30-year-old guard has agreed on terms of contract with VEF Riga. Last season Marque Perry started the previous season in Slovenia. He tallied 1.3 points and 1.1 assists per game in Euroleague. In Adriatic League his stats read 4.8 points, 1.9 assists and 1.3 rebounds per appearance. In Feburary Marque Perry moved to Russia. The guard joined Russian Superleagues Ural Ekaterinburg. The guard notched 14.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.7 steals per game. Marque Perry led his team into Superleague semifinals. Marque Perry had stints in Ukraine, Turkey, Russia, Italy and Greece. He was the member of USA National Team back in 2005.

Pablo Prigioni joins Caja Laboral - by Eurobasket NewsCaja Laboral strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Pablo Prigioni (191-G-77). The deal is meant for one season. Pablo Prigioni played for Real Madrid since 2009. Last season the Argentinean player averaged 5.4 points, 3.4 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game in Euroleague. In ACB Pablo Prigioni tallied 5.8 points, 3.7 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals per appearance. Pablo Prigioni is not new to Vitoria. He played for the team under the name of TAU Ceramica back in 2003/2009 seasons. Pablo Prigioni is the member of Argentinean National Team. He participated at 2010 World Championships. The guard averaged 7.4 points, 6.4 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game in Turkey.

Omri Casspi officially out of EuroBasket - by Eurobasket NewsOmri Casspi (204-F/G-88) will definitely miss the upcoming EuroBasket in Lithuania. He was hurt in practice two weeks ago but had hoped to recover in time with the initial diagnosis suggesting he could be back on court within a fortnight of sustaining the injury. However, his knee is not fine yet and Casspi will have to receive more treatments. Head Coach of the Israeli NT Arik Shivek had to release Casspi from the squad and they will go without him to Lithuania. Omri Casspi had 16.9 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.4 apg for 8 games in Qualifications to European Championships 2011. Two years ago in Poland he registered 5.4 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 5 games. Casspi spent last two seasons in the NBA. In the latest one he had 8.6 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 71 games with the Sacramento Kings. In his rookie year Casspi had 10.3 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 77 games. The Kings selected him as 23rd overall pick at the 2009 NBA Draft.

Novica Velickovic out of EuroBasket - by Eurobasket NewsPower forward Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) is forced to miss the upcoming EuroBasket in Lithuania. One of the best Serbian National Team players still recovers from injury and will not be able to help his countrymates in Lithuania. This is bad but kind of expected news for Serbia. Velickovic helped Serbia to reach Semifinals in Turkey last summer. He had 11.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 2.1 apg for 9 games at the World Championship. Two years ago Novica Velickovic shined at the EuroBasket in Poland. He had 11.1 ppg and 4.9 rpg helping Serbia to win the Silver. He was also one of the best Serbian players in Qualifications to European Championships 2009. Novica Velickovic is a member of Real Madrid, with whom he signed contract extension this summer. He struggled to get minutes last season averaging 3 points and 2.6 rebounds for 30 games in ACB. Velickovic also added 3.4 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 19 Euroleague games. He moved to Real Madrid in 2009 from Partizan Belgrade.

Israel beats Russia 89:79 to win the European Basketball Tour - by David PickAfter both teams previously jumped over Poland in the 2011 European Basketball Tour, Israel and Russia along with their Israeli head coach -- David Blatt met today (Wednesday), in a battle for the last exhibition game title before heading out to Lithuania.

Israel Russia 89:79

David Blatt started the game with both his NBA starts Andrei Kirilenko and Timofey Mozgov, to go along with Sergey Bykov, Evgeniy Voronov and Dimitriy Khvostov. Israel opened the match with three Euroleague finalists (Guy Pnini, Yaniv Green & Lior Eliyahu), alongside Yotam Halperin and Afik Nissim.

A packed house (1,500 fans) in Rishon LeZion saw a tight and exciting first quarter as Russians Bykov and Mozgov did most of the damage on the offensive end giving the guests a 12:6 mid-quarter lead. Pnini with two treys and Eliyahu with eight points kept Israel close as the score board showed a 20:20 tie after one.

The Russians began the second period on flames and a three pointer by Khryapa ended a 7:1 run calling an Israeli TO, (28:21). Israel's coach Arik Shivek talked some sense into his men resulting in a half-court ally-oop from Pnini to Eliyahu, followed by two deep another pair of back-to-back buckets by Pnini, gave the home team a 39:32 advantage. The two teams went to the locker rooms as the hosts led by five, 43:38.

Kirilenko kept heating up in the third and crossed the 20 point scoring margin but Israeli threes by Blu and Halperin gave ISR a 67:60 edge entering the last frame. Blatt's new addition to Maccabi's roster Yogev Ohayon gave two beautiful dimes and added a jumper as Israel took its largest lead, 77:60. Russia couldnt make its final comeback as the hosts ended up winning the 2011 European Basketball Tour, 89:79.

Loir Eliyahu had a team high 27 points. Guy Pnini added 17 (4 threes), Yotam Halperin and David Blu finished with 13 & 8 points respectively for the winners. Andrei Kirilenko led all scorers with 29 points, followed by Sergey Bykov's 11 points. Victor Khryapa and Timofey Mozgov had 9 & 6 points in a losing effort.

Israel as recalled was pooled to Group B, one of the toughest groups in the EuroBasket games, as they will battle Italy, Serbia, France, Germany and Latvia for one of the first two qualifying spots. Russia is the favorite to win Group D along with Belgium, Bulgaria, Georgia, Slovenia and Ukraine.

KORISLIIGA: Steven Wright leaving Germany - by Rauno HurmalainenAmerican Guard Steven Wright (191-G-83, agency: Court Side, college: N.Kentucky) came first time to Europe in fall 2007 as he joined Braunschweig roster in Germany Bundesliga. Since then Wright has played pro basketball in Germany - only teams have changed. After Braunschweig came Paderborn and Tuebingen and last season (2010-11) Wright played on Duesseldorf roster and averaged 8,7 ppg - 2,8 rpg - 1,6 apg. Wright was shooting FTs with 71,9% accuracy, 2-pointers 45,9% and 3-pointers 29,7%. Coming 2011-12 season Wright will play on YMCA Lahti roster in Finland. Last week YMCA Lahti signed with American Ryan Brooks (193-G-81, agency: Pro One Sports, college: Temple), who comes also from Germany to Finnish basketball courts.

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FRANCE

Orleans keep Bryan Pamba-Juille - by Eurobasket NewsOrleans keep Bryan Pamba-Juille (185-G/F-92) for 2011/2012 season. The Ivorian-French player will enter his second season with the squad.In 2009-2010 the 1992 year-born player appeared in Elan Bearnais Pau-Lacq-Orthez junior team. In 2010-2011 he played for Entente Orleans 45 (France) U21 team and in 6 games averaged 2.2ppg, 1.5rpg, 1.2apg. In his top game last season he recorded 4 points at the Regular Season Round 25. Chalon beat Orleans 76-59 in early April.The game was mostly controlled by Chalon/Saor. Entente Orleans 45 was better in fourth quarter 23-17. But it was not enough to take a lead and get a victory that evening. Chalon/Saor looked well-organized offensively handing out 24 assists. Bryan Pamba-Juille added 2 rebounds and 2 assists and was 2/4 from the field. He was at the Ivory Coast National Team Camp -10. Later he was a member of the French U18 National Team -10 and French U20 National Team -11.

Gravelines and Marcus Landry part ways - by Eurobasket NewsMarcus Landry (201-F-85, college: Wisconsin) is no longer a member of Gravelines-Dunkerque. The team informed that Landry asked to leave due to family problems in the US. The American forward joined Gravelines recently singing a deal for the next season. He spent 2010/11 with NBA D-League team Reno Bighorns. For 53 games with them Landry had 17.6 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 2 apg. During the summer he spent some time in Puerto Rico. He appeared 10 times for Maratonistas de Coamo averaging 11.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists. Marcus Landry played 16 games for the New York Knicks in 2009/10 season. He had 1.4 ppg and 1.1 rpg, before his trade to Boston Celtics. However, he appeared just once with Boston. Marcus Landry graduated at the University of Wisconsin in 2009.

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GERMANY

BG Dorsten Give Florian Heit Promotion - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberHard work and effort is never the wrong way to go as it doesnt always get overlooked as BG Dorsten have recognized the play of 22 year old Florian Heit and promoted him to the PRO B team. The 204cm Heit practiced with BG Dorsten for 3 weeks and had several individual practices and convined the team in the practice game against Paderborn. Last season, Heit played in the second team in the Landesliga and was never totally removed from the radar of head coach Torsten Schierenbeck 'Florian has developed very well in only a short time. He still will need some time to have consistent play, but his will makes me positive. His biggest strength is rebounding!, stressed BG Dorsten head coach Torsten Schierenbeck Heit started basketball with the German U-18 with BG Dorsten and is happy about moving up. 'I am looking forward with my chance with the first team. I am awaiting a very hard season. I want to continue to improve and help the team', stressed Florian Heit.

Aschersleben lands Spanish guard and German forward - by Moritz KorffSpanish guard Francisco Javier Huertas Sampedro (181-G-82) and talented forward Kevin Weber (198-F-91) have joined the Aschersleben Tigers, the 1. Regionalliga North newcomer announced. Huertas is 29 years of age and has lots of experience under his belt. The native of Madrid has previously played in Slovenia and Italy. During the 2010-11 season he was a member of Spanish EBA side Espacio Torrelodones. He saw action in nine games and scored 4.1 points per outing.Weber, a product of Mitteldeutscher BC, comes off a season with Oberliga club BBC Halle (12 games: 14.2ppg).

Nick Freer (Webmoebel Baskets) John Bowler Is Always Making People Laugh And Keeping A Good Team Atmosphere. - by Miles Schmidt-ScheuberNick Freer (198-G/F-85, college: Grand Valley St.) is a 26 year old 198 cm shooting guard/small forward from Stevensville, Michigan that will be playing for the Webmoebel Baskets Paderborn this season. He played at E.Michigan (NCAA) from 2004-2007 and then transfered to Grand Valley St. (NCAA2). In his senior yearthere, he played 37 games: 7.0ppg, 3.4rpg, 1.0apg, FGP: 48.5%, 3PT: 29.2%, FT: 77.9%.He started his professional basketball career in 2009 for the Holland Blast (IBL) and then In March 2010 signed at Newcastle Hunters (Australia-ABA) playing 21 games averaging 22.7ppg, 9.0rpg, 1.8apg, 2FGP: 41.8%, 3PT: 35.3%, FT: 80.5%. Last season, he played for the TV 1864 Salzkotten (Germany-Regionalliga) and the Southwest Slammers (Australia-SBL).He spoke to Eurobasket about basketball.

Congrats on getting the job with the Webmoebel Baskets. How happy are you about getting this job considering you played in the Regionaliga last season for TV 1864 Salzkotten?

I'm really happy. I'm just excited to be able to play at a higher level and keep improving my game. Plus the fact that I get to go back to Paderborn is really great, I made a lot of good friends while I was there last year so I was really hoping to be able to go back.

Thomas Glasauer seems to have a lot of trust in you. Did the fact that you practiced with the Webmoebel baskets help your chances of getting this job?

Yeah I think it made it easier for both sides. They knew exactly what they were getting with me and I knew exactly what the club and atmosphere were like in Paderborn.

You tore up the Regionaliga last season. Do you feel a lot of pressure having to perform in the PRO A which is two levels above the Regionaliga?

No I don't feel pressure at all. I just have put in a lot of hard work and continue to get better. I would say I feel less pressure, I'm not going to be expected to score 20 pts a game.

You showed that you were a scoring machine in Australia. Is this something that you could continue in the PRO A?

I don't think I'll have to be a scoring machine, we will have a lot of scoring options on the team this season. If the team is going to be successful we can't rely on one, two, or even three guys to score all the time.

Do you see yourself becoming a leader of the Webmebel Baskets on and off the court?

Absolutely

You averaged 9 rebounds in Australia at 198cm. What is your secret to your adept rebounding skills?

My strategy is to jump higher than the other guys.

What is a strength in your game that isnt always seen right away?

Probably my defense, I don't get a lot of steals or blocks, but I try to harass my opponent as much as I can.

On what things did you be work on this summer in the gym to get better?

I've been working on my ballhandling and scoring around the basket with contact.

You spent last season in Germany. What do you like most about the country?

The people were so friendly, and I loved how crazy the fans are. It makes for a great atmosphere to play in.

What was the weirdest experience that you had during your time in Australia?

Haha, probably swimming in the ocean in the middle of their 'winter'. Which is very mild compared to Germany or Michigan.

You spent two seasons together with EnBW Ludwigsburg center John Bowler at Eastern Michigan. What could you learn from the big man?

The big fella taught me a lot. Mostly just how to have a good time.

What will you never forget about John Bowler on and off the court? Was he already showcasing those old school moves and shots in practice and games?

What I remember most about playing with John is how much of a competitor he is. At the same time he's a great team mate because he is always making people laugh and keeping a good team atmosphere. No old school moves from John in college, more just overpowering 2 to 3 guys. No one could guard him.

Who was the best player that you had to play against in the NCAA?

Just off the top of my head, probably Stephen Curry from Davidson

What were the most free throws that you have made in a row in practice or in a game?

100 in shoot around

Your most crazy shot that you ever made in practice or game?

Last year in Newcastle I made one from 3/4 court just after the buzzer so it didn't count. But it was definitely the most crazy shot I've made.

What was the last DVD movie that you saw?

Transformers 3

Thanks for the chat Nick.

Steven Smith joins BG Hagen - by Daniel PoerschkeSteven Smith (211-C-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: S.Dakota) is the new import player for BG Hagen of the 1. Regionalliga West. Smith played last season for the Cheshire Jets in the british BBL. The tall center spent his collegiate career at the University of South Dakota. BG Hagen head coach Kosta Filippou is happy to have Smith on board for the upcoming campaign: 'Steve will help us a lot under the basket. I was looking for a classic big man who can play together with my wings and guards and we are optimistic, that we found the right player with Steve.'

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GREECE

Greece destroyed the Bulgarian team in Day 2 of the Acropolis Tournament - by Eurobasket NewsGreece-Bulgaria 101:67

Greece destroyed the Bulgarian team in Day 2 of the Acropolis Tournament. The home side erupted with 101:67 for the second straight win. Greece continued their perfect performance in the preparation for Lithuania in the end of August. Greece grabbed massive 31:13 lead over Bulgaria and never looked behind after. They added 25-19 in the second frame for 56:32 at the halftime. Bulgaria reached 56 only at the end of the third period as they won the frame 24-18. Greece had 74 points at that time and produced another massive quarter at the end. With 27-11 the hosts reached three digit number and enjoyed 101:67 victory. Costas Vasiliadis (200-G/F-84, agency: FCM) paced all the winners with 15 points, while Dimitrios Mavroeidis (208-C-85, agency: FCM) netted 13. Michael Bramos (196-G/F-87, college: Miami, OH) and Ian Vougioukas (212-C/F-85, college: St.Louis) followed them with 11 points each. Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) ended up with 14 points in defeat, whilst Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) and Nikolay Varbanov (209-C-85, agency: Interperformances) notched 11 apiece.

Ikaros gets bigger with Aron Baynes - by Eurobasket NewsIkaros announced signing of a one-year deal with Aron Baynes (208-C-86, college: Washington St.). The Australian big guy heads to Greece from the German team EWE Baskets Oldenburg, where he spent last season. He had 6.8 ppg and 3.7 rpg for them in 40 league games. In EuroCup, Baynes was much better adding 13.4 ppg and 5.6 rpg for five games. Aron Baynes played for Lietuvos Rytas in 2009/10 season. He helped them win Lithuanian title and Cup. For 27 games in LKL Bayes averaged 9.3 points and 3.6 rebounds. He also added 5.5 ppg and 3 rpg for 10 Euroleague games. It was the first season as a pro for Baynes. He graduated at the Washington State University two years ago. Baynes is active member of the Australian National Team.

Gagaloudis remains to Maroussi - by Chris MammidesMaroussi of the new Head Coach Nikos Linardos (and his new coaching team) did the most common thing that all the teams ought to do so as the teamsimply renewed the contract of last season's leading figure (in all the aspects)of the team Yannis Gagaloudis (191-G-78). The experienced point guard will lead for another one season the team of Maroussi.

At the same time with the team which is allready started the first trainings of the season another important figure is takign part the as the 'Italian' Dimitrios Tsaldaris (196-G/F-80) is giving his present in the training even though there is a difference in the financial part between the two parts. Last but not least, the management of the team is very close to sign the young American forward Scotty Hopson (200-G-89), a Tenessee player in his second season in the NCAA was among the top performers and had amazing stats in his season with the 'orange'

Greece started Acropolis Tournament in Athens with the victory over NCAA team BYU Cougars. The home side controlled the entire game and won 83:54 in the start of four nation campaign. The Cougars got off to a quick start as Rogers scored six points early to give BYU an 8:4 lead. The Cougars led 12:10 on a layup by Rogers before Greece erupted with 18-0 run. Greece used its size to take over the end of the quarter and took a 52:26 lead into the half.The picture did not change in the second half as the hosts dominated the court. The board showed 59:38 at the end of the third period and it was clear at that time about the winner. Mantzaris scored for 80:50, while BYU Cougars reduced to 29 points. Kostas Koufos (213-C/F-89, college: Ohio St.) stepped up with 24 points, while Dimitrios Vassiliadis (181-G-89) notched 16. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) followed them with 13 and Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) added 9. Stephen Rogers (203-F) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Charles Abouo (195-G/F-89) posted 16.

Estonia earned the fourth win at the European Championship in Division B Qualifying Round. Therefore Estonia improved at 4-2 record and caught up with Netherlands in Group A ladder. Gregor Arbet (194-F/G-83) scored 28 points to pace the winners. Netherlands ensured a brave start. They recorded a 17:16 lead after ten minutes. Estonia surged ahead in the second term. They registered a 34:29 halftime lead. The hosts maintained the lead throughout the third term. Rain Veideman (192-G-91) drained a pair of triples late in the period to establish a 57:45 advantage for Estonia. The home team did not allow Netherlands to get too close in the fourth frame. Estonia rallied to a comfortable win at the end. Gert Dorbek (194-G-85) notched 18 points, while Rain Veideman provided 10 points in the victory. Dan Gadzuric (211-C-78, college: UCLA) responded with 18 points and 11 rebounds for Netherlands. Robin Smeulders (208-F-87, agency: Court Side, college: Portland) accounted for 12 points in defeat.

and other championship contender this year is new comer Foolad Mahan Esfahan , they signed Asghar Kardoust , Majid Ghasemzade and Javad Davari and rumors says they will sign other big names.

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ISRAEL

Omri Casspi officially out of EuroBasket - by Eurobasket NewsOmri Casspi (204-F/G-88) will definitely miss the upcoming EuroBasket in Lithuania. He was hurt in practice two weeks ago but had hoped to recover in time with the initial diagnosis suggesting he could be back on court within a fortnight of sustaining the injury. However, his knee is not fine yet and Casspi will have to receive more treatments. Head Coach of the Israeli NT Arik Shivek had to release Casspi from the squad and they will go without him to Lithuania. Omri Casspi had 16.9 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.4 apg for 8 games in Qualifications to European Championships 2011. Two years ago in Poland he registered 5.4 ppg and 3.6 rpg for 5 games. Casspi spent last two seasons in the NBA. In the latest one he had 8.6 ppg and 4.3 rpg for 71 games with the Sacramento Kings. In his rookie year Casspi had 10.3 ppg and 4.5 rpg for 77 games. The Kings selected him as 23rd overall pick at the 2009 NBA Draft.

Israel beats Russia 89:79 to win the European Basketball Tour - by David PickAfter both teams previously jumped over Poland in the 2011 European Basketball Tour, Israel and Russia along with their Israeli head coach -- David Blatt met today (Wednesday), in a battle for the last exhibition game title before heading out to Lithuania.

Israel Russia 89:79

David Blatt started the game with both his NBA starts Andrei Kirilenko and Timofey Mozgov, to go along with Sergey Bykov, Evgeniy Voronov and Dimitriy Khvostov. Israel opened the match with three Euroleague finalists (Guy Pnini, Yaniv Green & Lior Eliyahu), alongside Yotam Halperin and Afik Nissim.

A packed house (1,500 fans) in Rishon LeZion saw a tight and exciting first quarter as Russians Bykov and Mozgov did most of the damage on the offensive end giving the guests a 12:6 mid-quarter lead. Pnini with two treys and Eliyahu with eight points kept Israel close as the score board showed a 20:20 tie after one.

The Russians began the second period on flames and a three pointer by Khryapa ended a 7:1 run calling an Israeli TO, (28:21). Israel's coach Arik Shivek talked some sense into his men resulting in a half-court ally-oop from Pnini to Eliyahu, followed by two deep another pair of back-to-back buckets by Pnini, gave the home team a 39:32 advantage. The two teams went to the locker rooms as the hosts led by five, 43:38.

Kirilenko kept heating up in the third and crossed the 20 point scoring margin but Israeli threes by Blu and Halperin gave ISR a 67:60 edge entering the last frame. Blatt's new addition to Maccabi's roster Yogev Ohayon gave two beautiful dimes and added a jumper as Israel took its largest lead, 77:60. Russia couldnt make its final comeback as the hosts ended up winning the 2011 European Basketball Tour, 89:79.

Loir Eliyahu had a team high 27 points. Guy Pnini added 17 (4 threes), Yotam Halperin and David Blu finished with 13 & 8 points respectively for the winners. Andrei Kirilenko led all scorers with 29 points, followed by Sergey Bykov's 11 points. Victor Khryapa and Timofey Mozgov had 9 & 6 points in a losing effort.

Israel as recalled was pooled to Group B, one of the toughest groups in the EuroBasket games, as they will battle Italy, Serbia, France, Germany and Latvia for one of the first two qualifying spots. Russia is the favorite to win Group D along with Belgium, Bulgaria, Georgia, Slovenia and Ukraine.

Follow David Pick on Twitter: @Dpick_Mvd

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ITALY

Brian Scalabrine will join Benetton Treviso in Domegge di Cadore - by Eurobasket NewsLoud news came from Treviso as they expect NBA player Brian Scalabrine (206-C-78, college: USC) to join the team tomorrow. The NBA Champion in 2008 with Boston Celtics will come for a try-out.In 2010 Chicago Bulls brought nine-year veteran Brian Scalabrine. The latter spent the last five seasons with the Celtics, where new coach Tom Thibodeau served as an associate head coach for the last three seasons. Thibodeau values Scalabrine's shooting ability in sporadic spot minutes, as well as his locker room professionalism. Scalabrine has made four trips to the NBA Finals with the Celtics and Nets and averaged 3.3 points during the regular season. Before NBA he appeared in 1996-1997 for Highline Community College and averaged 16.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.2 steals. In 1998-1999 joined USC (NCAA) and showed 14.6ppg, 6.4rpg. In his last year there he had 14.7ppg, 5.9rpg, 2.8apg. In 2001 signed 1-years contract for $333,000 at New Jersey (NBA) with team option for additional year.

Italy pip Bulgaria at the start of the Acropolis Tournament - by Eurobasket NewsItaly-Bulgaria 74:71

Italy stun Bulgaria at the start of the Acropolis Tournament in Athens. In a game that remained carousel the Italian side grabbed 74:71 victory.Italy started the game with 21-16 lead at the end of the first period. Bulgaria then bounced back with 26-19 and took 42:40 at the halftime. Italy again took the lead back in the third quarter producing defensive 18-9. Bulgaria managed to win the last stanza, but lost by three. Bulgaria trailed 12 points and finished the game with 9-0 run. Andrea Bargnani (209-F/C-85) paced all the winners with 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Marco Belinelli (196-G-86) notched 18. Danilo Gallinari (205-G/F-88, agency: Players Group) posted 16 and Stefano Mancinelli (203-F-83) scored 11. Dejan Ivanov (205-F/C-86, agency: Beo Basket) replied with 17 points and 10 rebounds in defeat, whilst Kaloyan Ivanov (205-F-86) notched 14. Bozhidar Avramov (196-G-90, agency: Interperformances) delivered 12 for Bulgaria and Earl Rowland (188-G-83, college: St.Mary's, CA) added 11.

Banca Tercas Teramo keep Listwon, Ricci and Di Giuseppe - by Eurobasket NewsBanca Tercas Teramo keep Sandro Listwon (197-F/C-93), Antonello Ricci (185-G-92) and Vincenzo Di Giuseppe (185-G-93) for the next season. The young Italians will remain with the squad. Sandro Listwon started for Azzurra Belpasso (ITA) Cadet team in 2007 and then played for Banca Tercas Teramo junior team. In 2010-2011appeared in Banca Tercas Teramo (Italy-Serie A) but played mostly for junior team.Antonello Ricci is an Italian Guard who appeared first for Scavolini-Gruppo Spar Pesaro -Junior Team. In 2008-2009 he played for Teate Chieti (B dilettanti) and in 2009-2010 joined Banca Tercas Teramo Junior Team. Last season also debuted for Banca Tercas Teramo (Serie A): but played mostly for junior team.Vincenzo Di Giuseppe is a 1993-year-born Guard. Last season he appeared for Banca Tercas Teramo junior team. Alessandro Ramagli remain as a Head Coach of the team.

Avellino signs center Mattia Soloperto - by Eurobasket NewsMattia Soloperto (209-C-80) is a new member of Sidigas Avellino. The Italian big guy penned a deal for the next season. He heads to Avelino from A dilettanti team ASD Latina Basket. Soloperto appeared 28 times for the club averaging 12.4 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals. He helped Latina reach Italian A dilettanti Cup Semifinals. Before Latina, Mattia Soloperto spent two years with Trapani and one with Montecatini. With Montecatini in Lega Due he had 7.4 ppg and 6.1 rpg. Soloperto also has experience from Reggio Calabria, Dinamo Sassari, Imola and Ferrara. In the past, he played for Fortitidudo Bologna. Soloberto is a product of Teamsystem.

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IVORY COAST

26th Afrobasket: Guy power Cote dIvoire over Rwanda 80-72 - by Olusegun IkuesanComing from two quarters down in the eight final round of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men Cote dIvoire powered by Guy Edi who netted championship high of 34 points as the 2009 runner-up roam into the quarter final with 80-72 points over Rwanda.

Taking a 33-44 points deficit into the break Cote dIvoire roar back like a wounded Elephant to raid the offense area of Rwanda resulting in the Ivorians winning the third and fourth quarters by 25-18 and 22-10 points respectively.

Edi was joined on the scorer chart by guard Souleyman Diakate who poured in 16 points gave 5 assists grabbed 4 rebounds and stole the ball from Rwanda players four times with centre Mohamed Kone scoring 15 points and 7 rebounds.

Cote dIvoire will battle the winner of the eight final round between Senegal and host Moadagascar in the quarter-finla on Wednesday at the Palais des Sports, Antananarivo.

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JAPAN

John Flowers takes his talent to Japan - by Greg Saitama Broncos (BJ League) strengthened their roster with addition of 22-year old American forward John Flowers (200-F-89, agency: KMG Sports Management). Flowers played most recently at West Virginia University (NCAA) in the U.S. It will be his first year in professional basketball. While playing 33 games for W.Virginia last season he averaged 9.2ppg, 6.2rpg, 1.7apg and 2.2bpg. He was also named Lefty Driesell Defensive All-America Team.

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LATVIA

VEF Riga land Marque Perry - by Eurobasket NewsMarque Perry (185-G-81, agency: N.E.T., college: St.Louis) will continue his career in Latvia. The 30-year-old guard has agreed on terms of contract with VEF Riga. Last season Marque Perry started the previous season in Slovenia. He tallied 1.3 points and 1.1 assists per game in Euroleague. In Adriatic League his stats read 4.8 points, 1.9 assists and 1.3 rebounds per appearance. In Feburary Marque Perry moved to Russia. The guard joined Russian Superleagues Ural Ekaterinburg. The guard notched 14.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.7 steals per game. Marque Perry led his team into Superleague semifinals. Marque Perry had stints in Ukraine, Turkey, Russia, Italy and Greece. He was the member of USA National Team back in 2005.

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LITHUANIA

Paulius Joneliunas inks with BC Sakalai - by Eurobasket NewsPaulius Joneliunas inks with BC Sakalai for 2011/2012 season. The Lithuanian Center comes from Puntukas.In 2003-2004 he went to S.Carolina (NCAA) and in 2005-2006 joined American (NCAA). In his first season there he averaged 6.3ppg, 3.8rpg, FG: 52.7%, FT: 68.3%. In 2006-2007 for American (NCAA) his stats read 5.3ppg, 3.4rpg, FGP: 51.3%, FT: 67.4%.In 2007-2008 came back to Lithuania and appeared in Nevezis Kedainiai (LKL). In Baltic League after 9 games his stats read 3.1ppg, 1.4rpg, while in Lithuanian League he showed 3.5ppg, 1.5rpg. In Dec.'07 moved to Marijampole Suduva-Arvi (LKL) and in Lithuanian League had 7.2ppg, 5.6rpg, 1.4apg, FGP: 54.5%, FT: 55.6%, while in Baltic League had high 11.2ppg, 5.2rpg, 2FGP: 59.6%, FT: 64.7%.The season 2008-2009 started with Marijampole Suduva-Arvi, but in Jan.'09 moved to SBK Grodno-93 (Belarus-Premier League). In 2009-2010 appeared for Sakalai Vilnius (LKL, starting five) and in Baltic League averaged 7.5ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 56.3%, FT: 50.0%, while in Lithuanian League showed 8.1ppg, 5.5rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 54.8%, FT: 45.8%. In November 2010 signed at Barsy Atyrau (Kazakhstan-D1) but in Feb.'11 moved to Puntukas Jarimpeksas Anyksciai (NKL, starting five).

Zalgiris Kaunas signs Vytas Sulskis, loans him to Rupidis - by Eurobasket NewsZalgiris Kaunas announced signing of Vytas Sulskis (200-G-88) to a long-term deal. They will send him on loan to Rupidis for the next season. This is the first professional deal for Sulskis, who graduated at the Youngstown State University few months ago. He appeared 30 times for his school as a senior averaging 13.1 points, 5.2 rebounds and 2 assists. Sulskis was one of the better Youngstown State players also as a junior. He had 11.3 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 1.8 apg for 30 games that season. Vytas Sulskis moved to the US during the high school education and in 2007 joined Youngstown State University. He had 9 ppg and 4.4 rpg for them as a freshman. Sulskis was named Horizon League All-Newcomer Team -08. In 2007, he was awarded with HS Florida Dairy Farmers Class 1A Player of the Year.

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MALI

26th Afrobasket: Mali kiss the dust, lose to Morocco - by Olusegun IkuesanAfter securing an early lead of 20-11 points in the first quarter of the last eight final round against Morocco Mali failed to lift its game thus allowing the Moroccan to over-run it from the second quarter losing by 08-22, 20-24 and 11-23 points for a cumulative scores of 59-80 points.

Montenegro pip Ukraine at the Adidas Istanbul Cup opener with 4 teams participating. The winners celebrated 80:67 victory after a slow start.Ukraine started better and Pecherov scored for 10:6 in the middle of the first period. Later Pecherov and Fesenko closed the opening quarter at 23:16. Moreover Fratellos team grabbed 30:18 in the start of the second frame, but lost the game. Montenegro bounced back with 7-0 run for 30:25 and Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) scored for 37:36. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) later tied the game at 48:48 and Omar-Sharif Cook (186-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) brought 53:49. Montenegro won the third quarter and enjoyed 58:54 at the start of the final stanza. They needed 22-13 in it to win the game. Omar-Sharif Cook top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC) posted 15. Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) and Vladimir Dragicevic delivered 11 points each, while Nikola Pekovic scored 9. Oleksiy Pecherov ended up with 19 points in defeat and Steve Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) netted 13.

Blake Griffin begins internship at Funny Or Die - by Eurobasket NewsStymied by the NBA lockout, Blake Griffin (6'10''-F-89, college: Oklahoma) is going to work for Will Ferrell instead.

This week, the Los Angeles Clippers All-Star forward is interning at Funny Or Die, the comedy website co-founded by Ferrell and Adam McKay. Griffin arrived at the site's LA offices Tuesday to begin three days of work in video production.

He will help write, shoot, edit and act in several videos for the site. Funny Or Die quickly creates digital comedy videos, often with celebrity guest appearances.

Griffin said he's a big comedy fan and an avid viewer of Funny Or Die. As an intern, he hopes to learn more about film production.

'Just to get an inside look at how things are run here is exciting to me,' Griffin said by phone Tuesday. 'I don't know what interns at Funny Or Die are like, but I'm about to find out, I guess.'

Mike Farah, president of production at Funny Or Die, pledged that Griffin will be treated like other interns. He noted that the 22-year-old Griffin is, after all, about the same age as most of the site's college interns. (The others, of course, may not be able to dunk over midsize sedans.)

'We're going to put him to work,' said Farah. 'He's shooting a series of videos, and he's also coming to meetings. He's basically doing everything that an intern does.'

Griffin counts 'Old School,' ''Wedding Crashers' and 'Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy' among his favorite movies. On Funny Or Die, he likes Zach Galifianakis' mock interview series 'Between Two Ferns.'

'I'll go see a bad comedy over a good action movie any day,' Griffin said.

Griffin, who was last season's NBA Rookie of the Year and won the Slam Dunk Contest (in which he leaped over a Kia Optima), has been keeping busy during the NBA lockout. He's done a lot of sponsorship work, been active on Twitter and launched a basketball camp for kids in Oklahoma City.

Though Griffin averaged 22.5 points and 12.1 rebounds per game last season, he says he's not above fetching coffee in his week as an intern.

'I don't mind doing stuff like that,' said the forward. 'It's not a problem for me.'

Rick Adelman interviews with Timberwolves about coaching vacancy - by Eurobasket NewsLong believed to be the frontrunner if he wants the job, Rick Adelman finally came to the Twin Cities on Tuesday and interviewed with the Timberwolves about their coaching opening.

Three weeks after he told an Oregon newspaper that he has no plans 'right now' to coach next season, Adelman met with Wolves president of basketball operations David Kahn, owner Glen Taylor and CEO Rob Moor before catching an outbound flight home, a league source with knowledge of the teams search said.

He is the seventh and final candidate - Don Nelson, Sam Mitchell, Mike Woodson, Larry Brown, Bernie Bickerstaff and Terry Porter are the others - to interview for a job that became vacant when Kurt Rambis was fired last month after two seasons as head coach.

Adelman first talked with Kahn about the job at some length by phone more than a month ago, but didnt interview in person, as the other six candidates did previously, until Tuesday, nearly two weeks after Brown was the last candidate to interview.

He has coached four NBA teams in the past two decades, mostly recently with Houston. The Rockets and Adelman parted ways after last season, when the four-year, $16.25 million contract he signed in 2007 expired.

Hes expected to command a contract of at least three years and $4 million to $5 million annually if not more should the Wolves reach an agreement with him.

Adelman, 65, took a year off from coaching after his first three NBA head-coaching jobs, with Portland, Golden State and Sacramento.

His family apparently wants him to take at least a season off, if not outright retire. More than one NBA league executive or coach initially believed the Wolves job was too big of a rebuilding project at this stage of his life to attract Adelman, who had differences with a Rockets management team that wanted him to play younger players more last season.

Adelman fits the desription a successful NBA coach who believes in fast-paced basketball for the kind of coach Kahn last month said he wants to replace Rambis.

His hiring also would be a proactive move toward convincing All-Star forward Kevin Love to sign a long-term contract extension.

Adelman and Love have had a friendly relationship since Loves high school days. Thats when Adelman watched nearly every game Love played his senior year because Adelmans son played on the same Lake Oswego, Ore., team during the season he took off after leaving the Kings.

Nelson and Brown have won hundreds more career games than him, but Adelmans career winning percentage of .605 945-616 in 20 seasons is the best of the seven candidates.

Near the end of last season, Adelman told reporters in Houston that he still has the passion to coach.

'I dont think Ive lost the desire to coach,' he said then. 'I think I still can do it.'

Though Artest declared his intention to The Times two weeks ago that he's 'definitely going to play' for the British Basketball League's Cheshire Jets, his agent, David Bauman, said the team hasn't offered Artest insurance, which poses a 'major problem' and would prevent the Lakers forward from joining the team.

'Its still on the table,' Bauman said Tuesday in a phone interview. 'But again, this insurance thing is a significant and a serious obstacle for any of the NBA players.'

Artest has a three-year, $21.8-million deal remaining with the Lakers. Without insurance, Artest could risk his contract becoming void should he suffer an injury with another team during the NBA lockout. That issue, said Bauman, also partly explains why Artest postponed his trip to the U.K. to speak with Jets officials, hold a news conference, mingle with fans and, in his words, 'make sure it's a good fit.' Tweeted Artest: Uk Sorry I couldnt make it this week Cant wait to meet the JETS!!!!

Meanwhile, Jets director Pete Hawkins told the Cheshire Chronicle last week that the deal isnt dead, saying: The next few days we need to work really hard. Insurance was always an issue from the outset, but we are still trying hard to ensure Ron has the protection he needs to play.'

Artest sounded unconcerned when that issue was brought up to him last month while sitting backstage of the Brea Improv Comedy Club: 'You just have to work. If you get fired, you have to get work. If you're not getting paid, you have to find a job.' Artest also remained mum on whether insurance might remain an issue during a 13-minute phone interview two weeks ago with The Times when he declared, 'I'm definitely going to play for the Jets.' Bauman, who had said as early as late June that Artest would need insurance before accepting an overseas offer, was asked whether he had informed Artest about his concerns as Artest publicly expressed enthusiasm for playing in the U.K.

'I think you can conclude that,' Bauman said. 'Obviously, my advice was not to do it.'

Bauman brought up concerns to ESPN Los Angeles' Dave McMenamin shortly after Artest had revealed his interest in playing for Cheshire to The Times' Bill Plaschke. Bauman, who hadn't returned repeated calls for comment when the Cheshire Jets publicly expressed interest in signing Artest, shot down the notion, however, that Artest acted presumptuously.

'Let me ask you a question. When the Cheshire Jets were giving quotes saying that Ive spoken to Rons agent and were close to a deal, if you Google my name and you Google 'Ron Artests agent,' everyone knows Im his agent,' Bauman said. 'I didnt receive one phone call, one email of communication or one fax, nothing from these people. Quickly, those quotes were then changed to say weve been in touch with Ron and his people. I didnt give any quotes that we had a deal done. Thats where we are. If the Cheshire Jets wanted to contact me, they would. They know what they had agreed to in a broadstroke was something very much in their favor and very much put Ron at risk.

'Im not going to lie to anybody,' Bauman continued. 'Ron fully intends to play for the Jets. Once all the information trickled in and we had a good pow-wow and it was very apparent there was a $21-million risk to agreeing to a deal like this, thats when we started to slow things down a little bit.'

That's why Bauman said he's advised Artest to wait to see how the negotiations surrounding the pending collective bargaining agreement turn out, arguing to wait until the Lakers' scheduled training camp approaches in late September before pursuing overseas offers. Bauman also declined to address whether Artest will follow through on his plan to play an unspecified number of exhibition games with the Loimaa Bisons, a professional basketball team in Finland, during one week in September.

'Ron is going to evaluate all of the opportunities that he has,' Bauman said. 'Ron is going to make the best business decision for himself and for his career. Its a process. Its nothing that has to be done now.'

Courtesy of www.latimes.com

Alonzo Gee signs in Poland - by Eurobasket NewsAsseco Prokom added another weapon to its new-look backcourt with the signing of Alonzo Gee (6'6''-G-87, college: Alabama). The move comes on the heels of the additions of fellow newcomers Leroy Nobles and Jerrel Blassingame, all of whom can make their Turkish Airlines Euroleague debuts this season. Gee (1.98 meters, 24 years old) arrives from Cleveland of the NBA, where he averaged 7.4 points and 3.9 rebounds in 40 games last season. He has also played for Washington and San Antonio in the NBA, as well as for Austin in the NBA D-League after finishing his college career at the University of Alabama (NCAA). Williams was chosen as the 2009-10 D-League Rookie of the Year after averaging 21.1 points and 6.7 rebounds with Austin.

AP Sources: Bruce Pearl hit with multiyear penalty - by Eurobasket NewsHiring Bruce Pearl to coach a basketball team just got harder and messier for a school.

The NCAA hit the former Tennessee men's basketball coach with a multiyear show-cause penalty on Tuesday, people familiar with the situation told The Associated Press on Wednesday on condition of anonymity because the school had not announced the NCAA's decision. What the ruling means is that before Pearl can be hired, a school must tell the NCAA why it wants him and be prepared to face its own penalties for giving him a job.

Former Pearl assistants Tony Jones, Jason Shay and Steve Forbes face the same sanctions, except they were only given one-year show-cause penalties, one person said.

The sanctions do not include further penalties against Tennessee beyond those self-imposed in response to major recruiting violations, another person told the AP.

The dozen charges against Tennessee were made by the NCAA in February after nearly two years of investigating Pearl, football coach Lane Kiffin and their staffs. Both coaches were accused of recruiting violations, and Pearl was charged with unethical conduct after he acknowledged in September lying to NCAA investigators about a cookout he hosted at his home attended by recruits.

Tennessee docked the salaries of Pearl and his staff and limited their recruiting, and the Southeastern Conference suspended Pearl for eight conference games. The entire staff was fired in March at the end of the 2010-11 season.

Gamble started 13 games in 2010-11 and averaged 3.8 points and 4.0 rebounds.

'We feel awful for Julian Gamble,' said Miami head coach Jim Larranaga. 'Tearing your ACL is a devastating injury at any time in your career, but particularly in your fifth year of eligibility. Julian is a bright, hard working and competitive athlete. We will do everything we can to support him in his efforts to rehabilitate this injury. We know he will also be there supporting his teammates, because that is just the kind of person he is.'

The injury is the second to the Hurricanes' front line this offseason. Center Reggie Johnson had surgery June 30 to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee and might be sidelined until January.

Courtesy of www.usatoday.com

Steven Smith joins BG Hagen - by Daniel PoerschkeSteven Smith (211-C-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: S.Dakota) is the new import player for BG Hagen of the 1. Regionalliga West. Smith played last season for the Cheshire Jets in the british BBL. The tall center spent his collegiate career at the University of South Dakota. BG Hagen head coach Kosta Filippou is happy to have Smith on board for the upcoming campaign: 'Steve will help us a lot under the basket. I was looking for a classic big man who can play together with my wings and guards and we are optimistic, that we found the right player with Steve.'

Greece started Acropolis Tournament in Athens with the victory over NCAA team BYU Cougars. The home side controlled the entire game and won 83:54 in the start of four nation campaign. The Cougars got off to a quick start as Rogers scored six points early to give BYU an 8:4 lead. The Cougars led 12:10 on a layup by Rogers before Greece erupted with 18-0 run. Greece used its size to take over the end of the quarter and took a 52:26 lead into the half.The picture did not change in the second half as the hosts dominated the court. The board showed 59:38 at the end of the third period and it was clear at that time about the winner. Mantzaris scored for 80:50, while BYU Cougars reduced to 29 points. Kostas Koufos (213-C/F-89, college: Ohio St.) stepped up with 24 points, while Dimitrios Vassiliadis (181-G-89) notched 16. Antonis Fotsis (210-F-81) followed them with 13 and Ioannis Bourousis (212-C-83, agency: FCM) added 9. Stephen Rogers (203-F) ended up with 20 points in the losing effort and Charles Abouo (195-G/F-89) posted 16.

Turkey won the Adidas Istanbul Cup 2011 at home over New Zealand. The hosts needed 70:64 to meet Montenegro tomorrow in the Final. New Zealand meanwhile will take on Ukraine for the third place. Turkey led in the whole first period and had 10:7 in the middle of it. After another five consecutive points, they reached 19:13 at the end of the frame. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) reduced to 26:22 and Mika Vukona (197-F-82) cut it to 34:32 at the halftime. Moreover the visitors grabbed 38:35 early in the third, while Ender Arslan tied the game at 41:41. Turkey won the third period 17-15 and had 51:47 after three quarters. They added 19-17 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Enes Kanter (208-C-92, college: Kentucky) stepped up with 14 points and Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) notched 12. Omer Asik (213-C-86) scored 11, while Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 10. Kirk Penney replied with 16 points and Mika Vukona finished the night with 13 in defeat.

Charleston Gunners join Premier Basketball League for 2012 season - by Eurobasket NewsThe Premier Basketball League (PBL) announced the latest league expansion into the Charleston, West Virginia market. The Charleston Gunners will join the PBL for the 2012 season.

This is not the Charleston Gunners first venture in minor league basketball in West Virginia. Extremely popular in the Mountain State, the Gunners played in the Continental Basketball Association from 1986-1989. Former NBA players Michael Anderson and Peter Verhoeven played in Charleston for the original Gunners.

We are so excited to bring back the popular Gunners franchise to Charleston. The community is such an amazing support base and we are proud to be part of the Premier Basketball League. The leagues involvement in community and minor league basketball as a whole was what brought us into the PBL, commented team owner Thomas Jones.

The owners of Charleston Pro Basketball, Inc., a West Virginia Corporation is located in Rand, WV. The Gunners ownership group headed by Thomas Jones is comprised of five community leaders, Brandon Burns, Director of Game Day Operations, A.C. Cooper the Director of Communications, Mark Hebard Comptroller, and legal counsel Rusty Webb. Team leadership is very involved in the legal, education, and media fields in the Kanawha Valley.

The Gunners are excited and look forward to hosting various game night themes throughout the season. Theme nights will include eBay Auction Night where fans can participate in an auction for a one-game contract to play pro basketball with the Gunners, and Zombie Night/Night of the Living Dead for the best-dressed zombie costumes.

The Gunners have been a team we have been excited about bringing into the league. The teams proven track record and fan base in the late 80s proves the community loyalty to the franchise. We are happy to have them and round out our East Coast division, commented Brij Desai, PBL President and CEO.

The Charleston Gunners join the Rochester RazorSharks, Dayton Air Strikers, Team Scranton Wilkes-Barre, Chicago Muscle, and the Sauk Valley Predators in 2012 PBL action. With the league in the process of making final team announcements for next season, attention and focus is switching to the PBL National Combine and Tryouts scheduled for October 1st-2nd at Attack Athletics in Chicago.

Courtesy of www.oursportscentral.com

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POLAND

Ryan Wittman inks with Zastal Zielona Gora - by Eurobasket NewsRyan Wittman (198-F-88, college: Cornell) inks with Zastal Zielona Gora for the upcoming season. The American Forward will appear in Poland. This player is a great 3 points shooter with a long range, who ended his last NCAA season with 17.5 ppg (42.6% 3Pt, 82.6% Ft). During his first collegiate game, he scored 18 points, breaking the Cornell record for points for a freshman in the season opening game. His father is Randy Wittman, assistant coach for Washington Wizards and former NBA player (he scored 4034 points with Haws, Kings and Pacers). In 2010-2011 Ryan Wittman appeared for MarcoPoloShop.it Forli (Italy-Lega2, starting five) and in 14 games averaged 14.5ppg, 4.2rpg, 2.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 50.9%, 3PT: 29.1%, FT: 80.0%. In February 2011 moved to Fort Wayne Mad Ants (D-League, starting five) and in 21 games showed 7.1ppg, 2.3rpg, FGP: 48.7%, 3PT: 46.3%. Zastal Zielona Gora also announced keeping Filip Matczak (184-PG-93) for the upcoming season. The Polish Point Guard played for SMS PZKosz Wladyslawowo (2Liga, starting five) last season and in 27 games averaged 17.0ppg, 3.7rpg, 2.1apg, 1.4spg, 2FGP: 52.0%, 3PT: 30.0%, FT: 71.0%. He played also for Zastal Zielona Gora junior team.

Russia earned the first win at the European Basketball Tour tournament in Tel-Aviv. They overcame Poland to take 1-0 record. Alexey Shved scored 22 points to pace the effort. Poland fell at 0-2 record after the loss. Russia will take on Israel tonight. Poland got to a better start. They snatched a 25:19 lead after ten minutes. Russia adjusted the tempo in the second quarter. They erased the deficit and cut the deficit to just two points at halftime 35:37. Russia pulled their noses in front in the third term. They earned a narrow 58:56 lead with one quarter to go. They maintained the lead throughout close final period eking out a narrow victory at the end. Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) accounted for 12 points, while Sergey Monya (203-F-83) added 10 points for the winners. Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded with 21 points for Poland. Szymon Szewczyk (209-C-82) netted 12 points in the loss.

Belarus edged Romania in Cluj-Napoca, both finished with 4-4 record - by Eurobasket NewsRomania-Belarus 65:85

Belarus edged Romania in Cluj-Napoca, both finished with 4-4 record the Division B of the European Championship. Belarus needed 85:65 to finish on the step higher. The teams exchanged the lead several times in the opening period, while Aliakseyeu closed it at 19:18. Ionut Dragusin (221-C-85) nailed three for 23:23, but then it was hard to follow Belarus. The latter erupted with 21-12 to take 40:30 at the halftime. The guests never looked behind after that and even increased the lead in the second half. The offensive 30-19 in the third quarter brought them 70:49 after three quarters. Romania managed to win the last stanza 16-15, but could reduce only to 20 points. Aliaksandr Kudrautsau (190-G-80) paced all the winners with 16 points, while Dzianis Korshuk (201-F-78, agency: Agency No 10) netted 11. Pavel Ulyanko (204-F/C-79), Artsiom Parakhouski (211-C-87, college: Radford) and Dmitri Paliashchuk (197-G/F-85, agency: Interperformances) had 10 points each in a win. Ionut Dragusin ended up with 14 points in the losing effort and Andrei Capusan (201-F-83, agency: Court Side, college: Lafayette) posted 12.

Russia earned the first win at the European Basketball Tour tournament in Tel-Aviv. They overcame Poland to take 1-0 record. Alexey Shved scored 22 points to pace the effort. Poland fell at 0-2 record after the loss. Russia will take on Israel tonight. Poland got to a better start. They snatched a 25:19 lead after ten minutes. Russia adjusted the tempo in the second quarter. They erased the deficit and cut the deficit to just two points at halftime 35:37. Russia pulled their noses in front in the third term. They earned a narrow 58:56 lead with one quarter to go. They maintained the lead throughout close final period eking out a narrow victory at the end. Viktor Khryapa (204-F/G-82) accounted for 12 points, while Sergey Monya (203-F-83) added 10 points for the winners. Dardan Berisha (192-G-88, agency: Global Sports Plaza) responded with 21 points for Poland. Szymon Szewczyk (209-C-82) netted 12 points in the loss.

Unics Kazan keep Kelly McCarty and Veremeenko Vladimir - by Eurobasket NewsUnics Kazan keep Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) and Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) for the upcoming season. Kelly McCarty joined the team in 2010-2011 and in EuroCup after 16 games averaged 13.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 83.9%. In VTB League his stats read 11.8ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 82.9%, whilst in Euroleague Qualifying Round he showed 12.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 20.0%, 3PT: 54.5%, FT: 84.6%. In Russian League after 25 games he had 11.5ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 85.1%. Kelly McCarty missed the end of the season. The Unics forward injured knee ligaments and got injured during Round 25 game against Nizhny Novgorod. The forward was named into Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup 2nd Team. Kelly McCarty also made it into All-VTB League 1st Team and was trumped All-VTB League Forward of the Year.Vladimir Veremeenko will enter his fourth season for the team. In 2010-2011 for Unics Kazan in EuroCup after 16 games his stats read 7.8ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 76.4%. In VTB League he showed 7.5ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 84.0%, while in Russian League after 35 games had 9.1ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 75.8%.

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SENEGAL

26th Afrobasket: Senegal thru to Q/Finals beat Madagascar 92-75 - by Olusegun IkuesanSenegal picked the seventh quarter final ticket with a 92-75 points victory over host Madagascar on Wednesday at the Palais des Sports of the 26th FIBA Africa Championship for Men.

The bigger and stronger Senegalese took the first three quarters by 26-13, 21-19 and 25-20 points to take a 20 points advanteg of 72-52 going into the last quarter as the Madagascan mounted pressure on the Senegalese side in the fourth quarter culminating in them losing the quarter by 20-23 points for a final score-line of 92-75 points.

Senegal will keep a date with Cote dIvoire in the second quarter-final on Thursday.

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SERBIA

Hemofarm inks big guy Mladen Pantic - by Eurobasket NewsMladen Pantic (209-C-82, agency: Alti Sport) will continue his career in Hemofarm. They signed a one-year deal today. Pantic heads to Hemofarm from Igokea, where he spent last season. He appeared 24 times in Adriatic league averaging 7.9 points and 3.5 rebounds. Pantic also added 7.5 ppg and 3.7 rpg for 11 games in Bosnian league. Three Igokea reached Playoff Finals. Before Igokea, Mladen Pantic spent one season with Radnicki Kragujevac. He had 9.3 ppg and 3.4 rpg for them in Adriatic league. In Serbian league his numbers increased to 10.1 ppg and 3.1 rpg. In the past, Mladen Pantic played for Kavala, Mega Hypo Leasing and ALBA Berlin. He also played couple of years to FMP winning the Adriatic league title with them in 2006.

Vasilije Micic, Nenad Miljenovic and Aleksandar Cvetkovic to play in U18 FIBA Europe All Star Game - by Eurobasket NewsThree Serbian players are honored with invitation to participate at the U18 FIBA Europe All Star Game which will take place during the EuroBasket Final Round on September 17 in Kauno Arena, Kaunas. Vasilije Micic (192-PG-94, agency: Beo Basket), Nenad Miljenovic (194-G-93, agency: Beo Basket) and Aleksandar Cvetkovic (185-PG-93) will have a chance to showcase their talent at this event. Vasilije Micic won the Silver with U18 Serbia at the European Championships U18 in Wroclaw this summer. He shined with 10.1 ppg, 4.2 rpg and 4.3 apg for 9 games at this event. Micic was named Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 Best Guard -11 and of course Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 1st Team -11.Nenad Miljenovic won the Silver with U18 Serbia at the same event. He had 11.2 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 4 apg. Miljenovic was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-European Championships U18 1st Team -11. Aleksandar Cvetkovic helped U19 Serbia to win the Silver at the World Championships U19 in Latvia. He averaged 14.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists for 9 games. Cvetkovic was awarded with Eurobasket.com All-World Championships U19 Best Guard -11 and Eurobasket.com All-World Championships U19 1st Team -11.

Novica Velickovic out of EuroBasket - by Eurobasket NewsPower forward Novica Velickovic (205-F-86) is forced to miss the upcoming EuroBasket in Lithuania. One of the best Serbian National Team players still recovers from injury and will not be able to help his countrymates in Lithuania. This is bad but kind of expected news for Serbia. Velickovic helped Serbia to reach Semifinals in Turkey last summer. He had 11.3 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 2.1 apg for 9 games at the World Championship. Two years ago Novica Velickovic shined at the EuroBasket in Poland. He had 11.1 ppg and 4.9 rpg helping Serbia to win the Silver. He was also one of the best Serbian players in Qualifications to European Championships 2009. Novica Velickovic is a member of Real Madrid, with whom he signed contract extension this summer. He struggled to get minutes last season averaging 3 points and 2.6 rebounds for 30 games in ACB. Velickovic also added 3.4 ppg and 2.8 rpg for 19 Euroleague games. He moved to Real Madrid in 2009 from Partizan Belgrade.

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SLOVAKIA

Handlova edged BK Proton Zlin in pre-season clashes - by Eurobasket NewsHandlova edged BK Proton Zlin in pre-season clashes to start the preparation for the next season. In Game 1 Handlova celebrated 78:59 victory. They started with 27-14, while both sides scored 14 points each in the second frame. The team from Czech Republic scored another 14 points in the third period and trailed 18 points after three quarters. Anthony Jones (194-G/F-84, college: Indiana Tech) stepped up with 28 points for the winners and Terlanda netted 13. Marcel Madaj (200-F-78) brought 12, while Tomas Mrvis (194-G/F-91) posted 8.In Game 2 Handlova won over BK Proton Zlin 75:66. The latter opened the game with 19-15, but could keep only 1-point advantage at the halftime. Handlova needed 16-13 in the third frame and 23-16 in the last to seal the victory. Anthony Jones again led the way with 23 points and Marcel Madaj posted 17. Paravinja delivered 13, whilst Ivan Barisic (201-C/F-84) had 12.

David Godbold signs with Prievidza - by Martin BoskoBC Prievidza has announced two new players for this season.Coach Roijakkers decided to get chance to young Slovakian player Matus Potocar (193-G-91), who was member of BK Iskra Svit last season. David Godbold (196-G-85, agency: Scorers 1st Sportmanagement, college: Oklahoma) is first American player of team, who has experience from Poland and last season he played in Finland. He graduated at Oklahoma University and his teammate was Blake Griffin. The club has informed fans about international tournament that will be on 15-18th of September in home arena. Prievidza will play against Xion Dukes Klosterneuburg from Austria, BK Levharti Chomutov from Czech republic and Science City Jena from Germany.

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SPAIN

Pablo Prigioni joins Caja Laboral - by Eurobasket NewsCaja Laboral strengthened their backcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Pablo Prigioni (191-G-77). The deal is meant for one season. Pablo Prigioni played for Real Madrid since 2009. Last season the Argentinean player averaged 5.4 points, 3.4 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game in Euroleague. In ACB Pablo Prigioni tallied 5.8 points, 3.7 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.1 steals per appearance. Pablo Prigioni is not new to Vitoria. He played for the team under the name of TAU Ceramica back in 2003/2009 seasons. Pablo Prigioni is the member of Argentinean National Team. He participated at 2010 World Championships. The guard averaged 7.4 points, 6.4 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game in Turkey.

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SWEDEN

Adrian Thomas is new PG of 08 Stockholm - by Andreas Eriksson08 Stockholm announced today the signing of american PG Adrian Thomas (185-G) who last year played D2 Basketball in the USA. This year 08 Stockholm hopes to again be in the playoffs after a few years on the downside, they have signed a new coach in Tommie Hansson and rumours have it they are trying to sign Tyrone Levett as second american player for the team, Levett who last year played for LF Basket and three years ago for Jmtland Basket is a well known name in Swedish Basketball and would be a good signing for the club.

Switzerland wrapped up their European Championship in Division B Qualifying Round campaign with road win. They surprised Czech Republic in Decin tonight. Derek Stockalper (198-G/F-84, college: Cal Poly - SLO) scored 16 points to pace the winners. The teams traded baskets throughout close first period. The hosts eked out an 18:17 lead after ten minutes. However Buscaglia and Derek Stockalper put the Swiss team in front midway through the second term. Switzerland posted a 35:33 lead at the interval. The visitors capped the third term with six points in a row to boost the gap to 10 points 55:45. Kotas dragged Czech Republic within just two points 61:63 with just over a minute to go in regulation. But Jonathan Kazadi (195-G-91) hit two free throws to stretch the lead to four points 65:61. Pavel Houska (201-F-84) drained a triple but it was too late to save the game. David Ramseier (198-C-87) provided 14 points, while Jonathan Kazadi added 13 points for the winners. Pavel Houska responded with 16 points for Czech Republic. Lubos Barton (202-F/G-80, college: Valparaiso) netted 11 points in the loss.

The National Team will play V/S Qatar and lebanon national teams 2 times .. At Wednesday : Qatar V/S Syria At Thursday : Syria V/S Lebanon At Saturday : Syria V/S Qatar At Sunday : lebanon V/S Qatar

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TUNISIA

26th Afrobasket: Tunisia overrun South Africa 94-50 - by Olusegun IkuesanTunisia lived up to its rating as one of the top favourites for the 26th edition of FIBA Africa Championship title when it over-run South Africa by 94-50 points in the round of eight finals.

The FIBA Africa Zone-1 power-house and third in the 2009 beat South Africa to the four quarters by 17-13, 24-13, 27-10 and 26-15 points to set up a quarter finals clash with the winner of the eight round final game between Mali and Morocco.

Other Tunisian players who recorded double score figure against the South Africans included Marouan Kechrid who scored 12 points with the duo of Radhouane Slimane and Mohamed Ghyaza contributinf 10 points each.

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TURKEY

Darussafaka signs Joey Rodriguez - by Eurobasket NewsJoey Rodriguez (178-G-88, college: VCU) is a new member of Darussafaka. He signed a one-year deal with the Turkish outfit. Rodriguez heads to Dacka from the Puerto Rican team Atleticos de San German. He played 19 games for them in BSN averaging 3.9 ppg, 1.6 rpg and 2.3 apg. It was the first professional deal for Rodriguez, who graduated at the Virginia Commonwealth University few months ago. They made a real boom last season reaching NCAA Final Four. VCU played in CAA Tournament Finals before that. Joey Rodriguez had 10.4 ppg, 3.2 rpg and 5.2 apg in 40 games as a senior. He was named All-CAA 3rd Team -11. Rodriguez had better digits for his school as a junior. At that time he had 12.9 ppg, 2.7 rpg and 5.8 apg for 36 games.

Trabzon brings in Oktay Yilmaz from Erdemir - by Eurobasket NewsTrabzon announced signing of Oktay Yilmaz (205-C/F-83) for the next season. The Turkish power forward/center heads to his new club from Erdemir. He appeared eight times in TBL last season having very limited playing time. Yilmaz averaged less than a point. Before Erdemir, Oktay Yilmaz spent one year with Antalya. There he also struggled to get minutes. For 27 games in TBL he had 1.9 ppg and 1.3 rpg. In 2008/09, Yilmaz was a member of Banvit and before that he played for Mersin. From 2005 to 2007, Oktay Yilmaz played for Darusafaka. In the past, he was a member of Turkish U20, U18 and U17 National Team.

Trabzon also adds G/SF Polat Kaya - by Eurobasket NewsTrabzon continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Turkish shooting guard/small forward Polat Kaya (197-G/F-86). The 25-year-old player heads to Trabzon from Aliaga Petkim. He had 4.2 ppg and 1.9 rpg for them in 29 TBL games last season. Polat Kaya played for Darussfaka in 2009/10. He had 7.3 ppg, 3.6 rpg and 1.3 apg for them in 29 games. Before Dacka, he spent one year with TED Koleji and one with Mersin. From 2005 to 2007, Polat Kaya played for Banvit. They reached TBL Semifinals in 2006. Kaya was a member of Turkish U21, U20 and U18 NT in the past. With U18 Turkey he reached U18 EuroBasket Finals 2004 in Zaragoza.

Turkey won the Adidas Istanbul Cup 2011 at home over New Zealand. The hosts needed 70:64 to meet Montenegro tomorrow in the Final. New Zealand meanwhile will take on Ukraine for the third place. Turkey led in the whole first period and had 10:7 in the middle of it. After another five consecutive points, they reached 19:13 at the end of the frame. Kirk Penney (196-G-80, college: Wisconsin) reduced to 26:22 and Mika Vukona (197-F-82) cut it to 34:32 at the halftime. Moreover the visitors grabbed 38:35 early in the third, while Ender Arslan tied the game at 41:41. Turkey won the third period 17-15 and had 51:47 after three quarters. They added 19-17 in the last stanza to seal the victory. Enes Kanter (208-C-92, college: Kentucky) stepped up with 14 points and Kerem Tunceri (190-G-79) notched 12. Omer Asik (213-C-86) scored 11, while Emir Preldzic (206-F-87, agency: Beo Basket) delivered 10. Kirk Penney replied with 16 points and Mika Vukona finished the night with 13 in defeat.

Anadolu Efes bring Gokhan Sirin back to Turkey - by Eurobasket NewsAnadolu Efes bring Gokhan Sirin (207-F-90) back to Turkey and announced a three-year contract. The Turkish young star comes back from Charlotte.In 2005-2006 he stared for Darussafaka Istanbul cadet team and in 2006-2007 moved to Darussafaka Istanbul junior team. In 2009-2010 moved to Charlotte (NCAA) and in 22 games averaged 2.9ppg. In 2010-2011 for Charlotte (NCAA) he improved to 3.3ppg, 1.2rpg. Sirin was shooting .413 from the floor, including .431 from three-point range (28-of-65). Sirin played in 29 games, making one start and averaging 11.3 minutes.Few days ago Gokhan Sirin participated for Turkish University National Team in China. He recorded 13 points in the last game for the team.Ukraine earned the 9th place at the World University Games in Shenzhen as they beat Turkey 76:71. Melih Mahmutoglu responded with 16 points for Turkey. Bora Pacun delivered 14 points and 9 rebounds in the loss.

Oulu inked a deal with Moultrie Monday morning. The 24-year-old forward started the previous season in the UBA. He averaged 14.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game for the Tennessee Dragons. This will be the first overseas contract for the forward. Moultrie graduated from AASU in 2009. He averaged 15.8 points and 8.6 rebounds per game in his senior season. To follow a great college career Moultrie was named Insiders.com NCAA Peach Belt 1st Team.

Steve Dolan continues to play a major role in the growth and development of the Dragon players moving on. In just one season the Dragons have placed over 8 players overseas.

'I just want whats best for my guys', said Dolan. Im all about the UBA and what we stand for. No disrespect to the other league but we take pride in placing our players.

The Tennessee Dragons were one of the top team in the UBA. Dolan carried the team to the 3rd best record in the UBA and the longest winning streak this season with 10 straight wins. The Dragons will move back into the Southern Conference and look to and a ring to their successful resume.

The UBL will be having its Owners Meeting July 30, in Little Rock, Arkansas. With 6 Teams in Texas ,Arkansas, Oklahoma, Mississippi and Missouri getting ready for the 2012 Upcoming Season . There will be some New Teams added to the UBL 2012 Season , infomation to come. The UBL had a great 2011 season and 2012 will be even greater. The 2012 Season will start in March. As of now, the UBL is moving Players and Coaches to the next level.

Montenegro pip Ukraine at the Adidas Istanbul Cup opener with 4 teams participating. The winners celebrated 80:67 victory after a slow start.Ukraine started better and Pecherov scored for 10:6 in the middle of the first period. Later Pecherov and Fesenko closed the opening quarter at 23:16. Moreover Fratellos team grabbed 30:18 in the start of the second frame, but lost the game. Montenegro bounced back with 7-0 run for 30:25 and Nikola Pekovic (210-C-86, agency: Beo Basket) scored for 37:36. Vladimir Dragicevic (206-C/F-86) later tied the game at 48:48 and Omar-Sharif Cook (186-PG-82, agency: Beo Basket, college: St.John's) brought 53:49. Montenegro won the third quarter and enjoyed 58:54 at the start of the final stanza. They needed 22-13 in it to win the game. Omar-Sharif Cook top-scored for the winners with 20 points and Nikola Vucevic (208-F-90, college: USC) posted 15. Vladimir Dasic (207-F-88, agency: Beo Basket) and Vladimir Dragicevic delivered 11 points each, while Nikola Pekovic scored 9. Oleksiy Pecherov ended up with 19 points in defeat and Steve Burtt (185-G-84, college: Iona) netted 13.

National team will play in Adidas Istanbul Cup - by Alexei RevenkoUkrainian National Team continue last preparings for Eurobasket 2011. August 24-25 our team will play in Adidas Istanbul Cup. In semi-final Ukraine will play against Montenegro national team. In other semi-final Turkey national team play against New Zeland national team.After this friendly tournament our national team back home. Some days later will go to Lithuania where August 31 play first game in Eurobasket against Russian National Team

Though Artest declared his intention to The Times two weeks ago that he's 'definitely going to play' for the British Basketball League's Cheshire Jets, his agent, David Bauman, said the team hasn't offered Artest insurance, which poses a 'major problem' and would prevent the Lakers forward from joining the team.

'Its still on the table,' Bauman said Tuesday in a phone interview. 'But again, this insurance thing is a significant and a serious obstacle for any of the NBA players.'

Artest has a three-year, $21.8-million deal remaining with the Lakers. Without insurance, Artest could risk his contract becoming void should he suffer an injury with another team during the NBA lockout. That issue, said Bauman, also partly explains why Artest postponed his trip to the U.K. to speak with Jets officials, hold a news conference, mingle with fans and, in his words, 'make sure it's a good fit.' Tweeted Artest: Uk Sorry I couldnt make it this week Cant wait to meet the JETS!!!!

Meanwhile, Jets director Pete Hawkins told the Cheshire Chronicle last week that the deal isnt dead, saying: The next few days we need to work really hard. Insurance was always an issue from the outset, but we are still trying hard to ensure Ron has the protection he needs to play.'

Artest sounded unconcerned when that issue was brought up to him last month while sitting backstage of the Brea Improv Comedy Club: 'You just have to work. If you get fired, you have to get work. If you're not getting paid, you have to find a job.' Artest also remained mum on whether insurance might remain an issue during a 13-minute phone interview two weeks ago with The Times when he declared, 'I'm definitely going to play for the Jets.' Bauman, who had said as early as late June that Artest would need insurance before accepting an overseas offer, was asked whether he had informed Artest about his concerns as Artest publicly expressed enthusiasm for playing in the U.K.

'I think you can conclude that,' Bauman said. 'Obviously, my advice was not to do it.'

Bauman brought up concerns to ESPN Los Angeles' Dave McMenamin shortly after Artest had revealed his interest in playing for Cheshire to The Times' Bill Plaschke. Bauman, who hadn't returned repeated calls for comment when the Cheshire Jets publicly expressed interest in signing Artest, shot down the notion, however, that Artest acted presumptuously.

'Let me ask you a question. When the Cheshire Jets were giving quotes saying that Ive spoken to Rons agent and were close to a deal, if you Google my name and you Google 'Ron Artests agent,' everyone knows Im his agent,' Bauman said. 'I didnt receive one phone call, one email of communication or one fax, nothing from these people. Quickly, those quotes were then changed to say weve been in touch with Ron and his people. I didnt give any quotes that we had a deal done. Thats where we are. If the Cheshire Jets wanted to contact me, they would. They know what they had agreed to in a broadstroke was something very much in their favor and very much put Ron at risk.

'Im not going to lie to anybody,' Bauman continued. 'Ron fully intends to play for the Jets. Once all the information trickled in and we had a good pow-wow and it was very apparent there was a $21-million risk to agreeing to a deal like this, thats when we started to slow things down a little bit.'

That's why Bauman said he's advised Artest to wait to see how the negotiations surrounding the pending collective bargaining agreement turn out, arguing to wait until the Lakers' scheduled training camp approaches in late September before pursuing overseas offers. Bauman also declined to address whether Artest will follow through on his plan to play an unspecified number of exhibition games with the Loimaa Bisons, a professional basketball team in Finland, during one week in September.

'Ron is going to evaluate all of the opportunities that he has,' Bauman said. 'Ron is going to make the best business decision for himself and for his career. Its a process. Its nothing that has to be done now.'

Venezuela earned the first win at the Oscar Moglia Cup in Montevideo. They shot down the hosts for 1-1 record. Heissler Guillent (186-G-86, agency: Paris Global Sports) knocked down 17 points to pace the winners. Uruguay fell at 1-1 record after the defeat. Uruguay will take on Argentina, while Venezuela will face Cuba on the final day of the tournament. Venezuela led by just two points at the first break 19:17. They maintained the lead throughout the second stanza. Venezuela established a 39:36 lead at the interval. Venezuela stretched the margin in the third stanza. The visitors secured a 12-point lead at the final intermission 62:50. Venezuela withheld all comeback efforts from the hosts in the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, college: Maryland) nailed 14 points, while Windi Graterol (204-C-86) posted 8 points in the winning effort. Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) answered with 22 points for Uruguay. Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80, college: Texas A&M) provided 17 points in defeat.

Venezuela earned the first win at the Oscar Moglia Cup in Montevideo. They shot down the hosts for 1-1 record. Heissler Guillent (186-G-86, agency: Paris Global Sports) knocked down 17 points to pace the winners. Uruguay fell at 1-1 record after the defeat. Uruguay will take on Argentina, while Venezuela will face Cuba on the final day of the tournament. Venezuela led by just two points at the first break 19:17. They maintained the lead throughout the second stanza. Venezuela established a 39:36 lead at the interval. Venezuela stretched the margin in the third stanza. The visitors secured a 12-point lead at the final intermission 62:50. Venezuela withheld all comeback efforts from the hosts in the fourth frame and sealed the victory at the end. Greivis Vasquez (198-PG-87, college: Maryland) nailed 14 points, while Windi Graterol (204-C-86) posted 8 points in the winning effort. Esteban Batista (208-F/C-83) answered with 22 points for Uruguay. Leandro Garcia Morales (186-G-80, college: Texas A&M) provided 17 points in defeat.

Unics Kazan keep Kelly McCarty and Veremeenko Vladimir - by Eurobasket NewsUnics Kazan keep Kelly McCarty (201-F-75, agency: Avi Zilberman, college: S.Mississippi) and Vladimir Veremeenko (208-F-84) for the upcoming season. Kelly McCarty joined the team in 2010-2011 and in EuroCup after 16 games averaged 13.1ppg, 4.0rpg, 1.1apg, FGP: 57.4%, 3PT: 40.0%, FT: 83.9%. In VTB League his stats read 11.8ppg, 4.7rpg, 1.5apg, FGP: 54.5%, 3PT: 29.3%, FT: 82.9%, whilst in Euroleague Qualifying Round he showed 12.5ppg, 6.0rpg, FGP: 20.0%, 3PT: 54.5%, FT: 84.6%. In Russian League after 25 games he had 11.5ppg, 4.6rpg, 1.2spg, FGP: 44.2%, 3PT: 34.4%, FT: 85.1%. Kelly McCarty missed the end of the season. The Unics forward injured knee ligaments and got injured during Round 25 game against Nizhny Novgorod. The forward was named into Eurobasket.com All-EuroCup 2nd Team. Kelly McCarty also made it into All-VTB League 1st Team and was trumped All-VTB League Forward of the Year.Vladimir Veremeenko will enter his fourth season for the team. In 2010-2011 for Unics Kazan in EuroCup after 16 games his stats read 7.8ppg, 4.9rpg, 1.3apg, 1.1spg, FGP: 62.5%, 3PT: 25.0%, FT: 76.4%. In VTB League he showed 7.5ppg, 5.1rpg, 1.6apg, FGP: 54.1%, 3PT: 50.0%, FT: 84.0%, while in Russian League after 35 games had 9.1ppg, 5.2rpg, 1.3apg, FGP: 61.5%, 3PT: 20.0%, FT: 75.8%.

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Women News

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ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS - Women

Korea score for the first time more than 100 points against Lebanon - by Maarouf MawloudTwelve-time former champions Korea became the first team to score more than the magical hundred points on Wednesday in their 104-75 win against Level I debutants Lebanon, en route to their fourth win in as many games and as many days to firmly perch themselves on top of the Level I standings.

Kang Ajeong led the Korean scoring spree with 23 points in 8/13 field shooting and Kim Jung Eun (pic above) had 19 points.

Choi Youn-Ah and Kang Young-suk were rested for the entire game as all others played and scored for almost 10 minutes apiece.

Lets look at it like this. Last night was really tough, Korea coach Lim Dal Shik chuckled. So I guess these games even out.

For starters, we didnt take Lebanon lightly. They play a completely different style than what we are normally used, Lim said.

Korea scored the first eight points of the game and only grew in strength as the game progressed.

China improved to 3-1 record in Level I after the win over Chinese Taipei. Nan Chen led China to 72:63 victory as Chinese Taipei is tied with 2-2 record. Both teams started well and only few points separated them in the first period. China took 18:16 after the first 10 minutes, while Yi-Hung MA reduced to 33:32 at the halftime. Chinese Taipei could stay on race and failed in the third quarter. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) scored for 51:41 and China led 55:48 after 30 minutes. Wan-Ting LI remained her team alive at 55:53 and then Lin Chi-Wen (186-C-83) scored for 57:55, but Lijie MIAO and Chen Nan (197-C-83) scored for 64:57. China won the last stanza and celebrated 72:63 victory. Chen Nan top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 10 rebounds, while Zhang Fan (188-F-84) nailed 10. Lijie MIAO and Ma Zengyu posted 9 points each. Lan Jui-Yu (170-G-83) replied with 12 points in defeat, whilst Liu Chun-Yi (180-F/C-81) and Lin Chi-Wen had 10 apiece.

Lebanon-South Korea 75:104

South Korea did not have any difficulties reaching the fourth straight victory at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women in Japan. The team overcame Lebanon 104:75 as the latter remains winless.South Korea was the favorite of the game and proved it from the very beginning. The first period became offensive in the game as the favorites took 34:21 at the end of it. Brittany Denson (192-C-87, college: S.Florida) reduce to 8 points, while Kim Kwe Ryong (190-C-89) brought 59:41. Later closed the half at 16 points difference. South Korea won the third quarter 23-19 and increased to 82:62 after three quarters. The task for the last stanza was to reach three digits and the team easily solved the problem. Kang Ajeong (180-F-89) (180-F-89) nailed three for 102: 70 and Kim Jung Eun (180-F-87) was the last to score in the game. Kang Ajeong paced all the winners with 23 points and Kim Jung Eun notched 19. Younhoa LEE scored 15, while Kim Kwe Ryong collected 14 points and 10 rebounds. Brittany Denson replied with 25 points in the losing effort and Nathalie Sevajian (170-G-88) netted 13.

Japan-India 79:51

Japan outscored India in the last game of Day 4 of the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. The hosts of the tournament needed 79:51 for 3-1 record. Even without the leaders the home side showed their best. Yuko Oga, Asami Yoshida, Ai Mitani and Ramu Tokashiki enjoyed a holiday on the bench as the others proved sufficient.Japan raced ahead 14-5 in the first quarter and were never really bothered. They added 20-16 in the second period for 34:21 at the halftime. Another 25-20 in the third period brought them 59:41. Moeko Nagaoka (180-F-93) nailed three for 62:41 early in the last period and Yuka Mamiya (183-C/F-90) made two free throws for 72:43. The latter became the last player to score in the game bringing the third win for Japan. Moeko Nagaoka stepped up with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Yoko Nagi (175-F-82) nailed 15. Yuka Mamiya and Eriko Kimura (181-C-83) followed them with 11 points each in a win. Geethu Anna Jose (185-C-85) answered with 16 points for the guests and Kokila Subramani (165-G-88) as well as Prashanti Singh (173-G-84) netted 9 each.

LEVEL2

Indonesia - Uzbekistan 68:65

Indonesia posted a crucial win in the fight for top two positions in Level II group of Asia Championship. They held off Uzbekistan to improve at 3-1 record on top of the standings. Uzbekistan suffered the second loss in a row. Wulan Ningrum (174-G/F-85) stepped up with 20 points to pace the winners. Indonesia enjoyed a narrow 17:14 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Uzbekistan scored just 7 points in the period to face a 14-point deficit at halftime 21:35. But the Uzbek team revived the intrigue in the third term. They narrowed the margin at two points 48:50 at the final intermission. Yelena Khusnitdinova (85) levelled things up at 57 midway through the fourth period. But Indonesia pulled back in front and hung on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Jacklien Ibo (175-F-90) posted 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Yunita Sugianto (167-PG-87) added 7 points in the victory. Yelena Khusnitdinova responded with 19 points for Uzbekistan. Guzal Burieva (89) had 11 points in the loss.

Kazakhstan - Singapore 89:52

Kazakhstan registered the third win at the Asia Championship in Japan. They prevailed against Singapore to climb at 3-1 record. Kazakhstan now share the top spot in Level II standings together with Indonesia and Malaysia. Tamara Seregina (182-F-90) fired 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the charge. Singapore fell at 1-3 record after the defeat. Kazakhstan jumped to a comfortable lead in the opening quarter. They piled up a 21:5 advantage at the first break. Kazakhstan maintained the lead well throughout the second term. Moreover they boosted the margin to 23 points at the interval 42:19. Things got just worse for Singapore after the main break. Kazakhstan continued to stretch the lead. They ensured a confident 26-point advantage at the final break and never looked back en route to the win. Zalina Kurazova (184-F-85) notched 13 points, while Yulia Korotkaya (175-G-77) added 12 points in the victory. Tan Sarah (173-F-91) answered with 18 points for Singapore. Koh Weibin (165-F-86) delivered 17 points in the loss.

Malaysia - Sri Lanka 65:30

Malaysia earned the third win at the Asia Championship in Japan. They toppled Sri Lanka to improve at 3-1 record in Level II standings. Siew Teng Ang (174-87) scored 11 points to pace the winners. Sri Lanka suffered the fourth straight defeat at the tournament. Malaysia set the tone early. They outgunned Sri Lanka 20:5 in the starting frame. Malaysia stayed in charge throughout the second frame. They established a 37:10 halftime lead. Sri Lanka slowed down their opponents in the third quarter but still could not get any closer. Malaysia entered the fourth quarter up by 30 points. Malaysia never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Beng Fong Goh (165-G-82) accounted for 10 points, while Shin Min Yong (174-F-87) added 9 points for Malaysia. Solange Gunawijeya (91) answered with 9 points. Inoka Juwan Pedige (82) finished with 8 points in the loss.

Entering her third season with the club, Wilson has proved a mainstay in the Spirits line-up since joining the team prior to 2008/09 campaign.

Playing opposite star point-guard Kristi Harrower, Wilsons aggressiveness on offence and sweet shooting stroke has given the Spirit another steady, dynamic threat on the perimeter.

Last year, Wilson averaged 8.0 points and 3.8 rebounds per game while connecting on 31.6 percent of her 3-point attempts. During the 2009/10 WNBL season, the 170cm veteran averaged a career best 10.8 points per game to go along with her 4.1 rebounds.

Spirit coach Bernie Harrower said that hes excited to have Wilsons playmaking ability back with the team for another year.

Kelly is routinely one of our hardest working and fittest players year after year, Harrower said.

We depend on her a lot at the guard position and as one of the most experienced backcourt players in the competition, shes able to use her knowledge and skill to attack defences.

Shes had the ability to both run the point for us and play off the ball and be a threat on the perimeter which makes her a dangerous player for opposing teams to deal with.

A full-time teacher in Bendigo, Wilson enters her ninth season in the WNBL, having spent time with the AIS, Sydney and Townsville before joining the Spirit.

Wilson is currently suiting up for the Bendigo Lady Braves in the SEABL where the former league MVP leads the team in scoring and is tied with fellow Spirit signee Deanna Smith for the league lead in assists, averaging 16.5 points and 4.5 assists per contest.

Geelong girls end season on a high - by Eurobasket NewsA SHOT on the buzzer from Deanna Smith has given Geelong Lady Supercats an upset 78-76 overtime win against finals-bound Ballarat to end their inaugural SEABL season on Saturday night.

After missing the chance to win the game in regulation, Smith made sure she was the hero in the extra period.

In the lead-up to the former Opal's heroics, Ballarat's New Zealand-star Natalie Taylor (178-F, college: S.Illinois) connected on a massive three-pointer to tie the game at 76-all.

Geelong then took the ball down the floor in the hope making the match-winner and it was Candice Rogers (183-F-84) who attempted to cap a sensational individual game with a three-pointer.

It was off the mark, but Smith was Johnny-on-the-spot with a tough offensive rebound and managed to find the bottom of the net as time expired.

It was that physicality Smith showed which coach Paul O'Brien demanded from his roster in their final match of the year.

'We talked about being physical in the contest from the start of the game,' he said.

'I'm sure there are some Ballarat people who'd consider me over the top at the start of the game because I was demanding physicality in everything.

'But I know what Ballarat are like. f we take a step back they'll fill that spot and keep pushing us back.'

Smith was again influential, further enhancing her MVP and All-Star credentials with 22 points, five rebounds and six assists.

The talented big also had 22 points, as well as grabbing 12 rebounds, six of those offensive.

The performance proved the Lady Supercats were more than capable of mixing it with the heavyweights of the SEABL, and has coach Paul O'Brien looking to the 2012 season with plenty of optimism.

'We're disappointed to miss out on finals, (and) we know why we missed out on finals,' he said.

'And now it's a burning desire of this group to make it (in 2012).'Courtesy of: geelongadvertiser.com.au

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BOSNIA - Women

Azur Sakic takes over Jedinstvo BH Telecom - by Eurobasket NewsJedinstvo BH Telecom got a new Head Coach. The team hired Bosnian specialist Azur Sakic for the next season. Actually, they verbally agreed a deal which will be signed in the next few days. Sakic worked last season with Sloboda Tuzla. However, situation in Sloboda is very critical at this moment and their future is questionable. It was one of the reasons why Sakic decided to leave them and to take HC position at Jedintsvo BH Telecom. Sakic already had first practice with his new team. Azur Sakic worked with Sloboda from 2007. They reached Bosnian league Semifinal in 2008 and 2009. In 2010, they played in the Bosnian Cup Finals. Sloboda finished last season as No.6 in Bosnian league.

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BULGARIA - Women

Grupo Marsol Conquero pens deal with Radostina Dimitrova - by Eurobasket NewsGrupo Marsol Conquero signed another player for the upcoming season. The Spanish outfit penned a deal with Bulgarian forward Radostina Dimitrova (185-F-85). The 26-year-old Dimitrova spent last season with Levski Sophia. She had 14.3 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.3 apg and 2 spg for them in 26 NBL games. She helped Levski reach NBL Finals. For her performance Eurobasket awarded Dimitrova with All-Bulgarian League Honorable Mention -11. Radostina Dimitrova is not a new face in Spain. She spent 2009/10 season with CD Irlandesas Leioa. For 51 games in LF2 she had 7.8 ppg and 2.3 rpg. Before that, Radistinova was a member of Burgos and Viaonetti Vinaroz. They also competed in LF2. Radostina Dimitrova won the Bulgarian league title and National Cup with CSKA Sofia in 2007. They also were Adriatic league champions that season.

Mann Filter Zaragoza keep Jaklin Zlatanova - by Eurobasket NewsMann Filter Zaragoza keep Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) for the upcoming season. The Bulgarian Forward will remain in Spain.In 2010-2011 for Mann Filter Zaragoza (Spain-LFB, starting five) in EuroCup she averaged 10.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.2apg, 1.9spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 73.3%. In Spanish League after 28 games her stats read 7.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 69.1%.Before coming to the team, Jaklin Zlatanova already had experience from Spain as she spent few seasons with Extrugasa Vilagarcia and Gran Canaria La Caja de Canarias. She appeared 26 times in LFB averaging 5.4 ppg and 3.3 rpg. In EuroCup, Zlatanova played 8 games registering way better digits: 13.3 ppg and 2.9 rpg. Before Extrugasa, Jaklin Zlatanova played four years for French giant Tarbes Gespe Bigorre. In her last season with the club Zlatanova collected 4.4 ppg and 2.6 rpg in 10 EuroCup Games. In French LFB she had 3.1 ppg and 1.8 rpg.

China improved to 3-1 record in Level I after the win over Chinese Taipei. Nan Chen led China to 72:63 victory as Chinese Taipei is tied with 2-2 record. Both teams started well and only few points separated them in the first period. China took 18:16 after the first 10 minutes, while Yi-Hung MA reduced to 33:32 at the halftime. Chinese Taipei could stay on race and failed in the third quarter. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) scored for 51:41 and China led 55:48 after 30 minutes. Wan-Ting LI remained her team alive at 55:53 and then Lin Chi-Wen (186-C-83) scored for 57:55, but Lijie MIAO and Chen Nan (197-C-83) scored for 64:57. China won the last stanza and celebrated 72:63 victory. Chen Nan top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 10 rebounds, while Zhang Fan (188-F-84) nailed 10. Lijie MIAO and Ma Zengyu posted 9 points each. Lan Jui-Yu (170-G-83) replied with 12 points in defeat, whilst Liu Chun-Yi (180-F/C-81) and Lin Chi-Wen had 10 apiece.

Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary inks Martina Bestagno - by Eurobasket Italian young talent Martina Bestagno (189-F/C-90) commits with czech team of BK Lokomotiva Karlovy Vary. After two seasons in Bologna (2009-2011) and three in La Spezia (2006-2009), it will be the first experience abroad for Martina.Last season, Bestagno averaged 12ppg (42%Fg, 69%Ft), 5.5rpg with Meccanica Nova Bologna in A2 in Italy. In 2010, she shined in Liepaja for the U20 European Championships 10.2ppg (44.8%FG, 66.9%FT) 3.6rpg.

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FRANCE - Women

Former NT player Nicole Antibe stays with Basket Parma - by Eurobasket NewsNicole Antibe (187-C/F-74) will stay with the Italian team Basket Parma for at least one more year. The former French NT center exploded last season with 15 ppg, 7.9 rpg and 3.5 spg for 22 games in Serie A1. She ended as the top-scorer of the competition. Of course it was more than enough for Antibe to secure an extension. Eurobasket awarded her with Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Center of The Year -11. Before Parma, Nicole Antibe spent two years with Familia Schio. She helped them reach Italian league Finals in 2010. In 2007/08, Antibe played for the Spanish Rivas Futura. A year before that she won the title in Italy with Phard Napoli. Nicole Antibe helped her team with 14.7 ppg and 7.1 rpg in 40 games. In the past, she also played for Ros Casares, Bourges with Bordeaux. Antibe won the LFB title in 2003 with US Valenciennes and Europe Cup trophy with Napoli.

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ICELAND - Women

Shannon McKever joins Snaefell - by Eurobasket NewsSnaefell strengthened their frontcourt. They agreed on terms of contract with Shannon McKever (182-C). The centre will start her pro career in Iceland. Shannon McKever graduated from Lander University this year. She tallied 17.2 points, 9.8 rebounds and 3.1 blocks per game in her senior season. Shannon McKever was named into Daktronics All-NCAA D2 2nd Team.

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INDIA - Women

Japan outscored India in the last game of Day 4 - by Eurobasket NewsJapan-India 79:51

Japan outscored India in the last game of Day 4 of the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. The hosts of the tournament needed 79:51 for 3-1 record. Even without the leaders the home side showed their best. Yuko Oga, Asami Yoshida, Ai Mitani and Ramu Tokashiki enjoyed a holiday on the bench as the others proved sufficient.Japan raced ahead 14-5 in the first quarter and were never really bothered. They added 20-16 in the second period for 34:21 at the halftime. Another 25-20 in the third period brought them 59:41. Moeko Nagaoka (180-F-93) nailed three for 62:41 early in the last period and Yuka Mamiya (183-C/F-90) made two free throws for 72:43. The latter became the last player to score in the game bringing the third win for Japan. Moeko Nagaoka stepped up with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Yoko Nagi (175-F-82) nailed 15. Yuka Mamiya and Eriko Kimura (181-C-83) followed them with 11 points each in a win. Geethu Anna Jose (185-C-85) answered with 16 points for the guests and Kokila Subramani (165-G-88) as well as Prashanti Singh (173-G-84) netted 9 each.

Indonesia posted a crucial win in the fight for top two positions in Level II group of Asia Championship. They held off Uzbekistan to improve at 3-1 record on top of the standings. Uzbekistan suffered the second loss in a row. Wulan Ningrum (174-G/F-85) stepped up with 20 points to pace the winners. Indonesia enjoyed a narrow 17:14 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Uzbekistan scored just 7 points in the period to face a 14-point deficit at halftime 21:35. But the Uzbek team revived the intrigue in the third term. They narrowed the margin at two points 48:50 at the final intermission. Yelena Khusnitdinova (85) levelled things up at 57 midway through the fourth period. But Indonesia pulled back in front and hung on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Jacklien Ibo (175-F-90) posted 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Yunita Sugianto (167-PG-87) added 7 points in the victory. Yelena Khusnitdinova responded with 19 points for Uzbekistan. Guzal Burieva (89) had 11 points in the loss.

Basket Parma keep the top-scorer of the League - by Eurobasket NewsBasket Parma keep the majority of the squad for the next season. They announced the following players to remain in 2011/2012 season: Monica Vaccari (181-F-91), Antibe Nicole, Maria Chiara Franchini (181-G-79), Valeria Battisodo (177-G-88), Gabriele Narviciute (187-F-90) and Francesca Piedimonte (168-G-92).Nicole Antibe (187-C/F-74) was the key player last season. In 2010-2011 for Basket Parma (Italy-A1, starting five) she became the top-scorer of the League with 15.0ppg, 7.9rpg, 3.5spg, FGP: 53.6%, 3PT: 29.6%, FT: 80.4%. In the top game she recorded 27 points at the Regular Season Round 2. Both teams failed in the first round. Basket Parma managed to take the first win mostly owing to Nicole Antibe, who scored 27 points and pulled down 6 rebounds. She reached valuation 34 and was the MVP of this meeting. She received Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 2nd Team 11,Eurobasket.com Italian A1 All-Bosmans Team -09, 11,Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Center of The Year -11,Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Bosman Player of The Year -11 and Eurobasket.com All-Italian A1 Honorable Mention Team -11.Before that the team announced Becca Tobin (195-F-88, college: Arizona St.), Moises Pinto Adriana, Gergana Slavcheva (186-F-79), Barbara Gibertini (188-C-79), Claudia Corbani (182-G-78) and Sophie Fall (176-G-89).

Priolo back to work with many doubts to solve - by Carlo GrilliHistorical coach and team founder Santino Coppa resigned few weeks ago from the helm of Trogylos Priolo; so that there wiil be former player and captain Sofia Vinci to welcome the athletes backing to Sicily after holidays. Actually the Priolo roster is composed by Tanja Cirov (181-G/F-81), Tania Seino (186-F-73), Susanna Bonfiglio (178-G-74), Tania Bertan (182-F-80), Silvia Favento (185-F-85), Elisa Buccianti (174-G-86) and Elena Bestagno (180-PG-91); by now, the team doesn't have any head coach, athletic trainer or a staff that can organize the athletes' work. Due to economic crisis, the situation still seems on high sea.

'We will start the training camp because its a professional act' - explains courageous captain Sofia Vinci - 'and for my part, I am also taking this task hoping that it's a temporary situation. Our goal is to convince Santino Coppa to resume the helm of the team'.

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JAPAN - Women

Japan outscored India in the last game of Day 4 - by Eurobasket NewsJapan-India 79:51

Japan outscored India in the last game of Day 4 of the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women. The hosts of the tournament needed 79:51 for 3-1 record. Even without the leaders the home side showed their best. Yuko Oga, Asami Yoshida, Ai Mitani and Ramu Tokashiki enjoyed a holiday on the bench as the others proved sufficient.Japan raced ahead 14-5 in the first quarter and were never really bothered. They added 20-16 in the second period for 34:21 at the halftime. Another 25-20 in the third period brought them 59:41. Moeko Nagaoka (180-F-93) nailed three for 62:41 early in the last period and Yuka Mamiya (183-C/F-90) made two free throws for 72:43. The latter became the last player to score in the game bringing the third win for Japan. Moeko Nagaoka stepped up with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Yoko Nagi (175-F-82) nailed 15. Yuka Mamiya and Eriko Kimura (181-C-83) followed them with 11 points each in a win. Geethu Anna Jose (185-C-85) answered with 16 points for the guests and Kokila Subramani (165-G-88) as well as Prashanti Singh (173-G-84) netted 9 each.

Kazakhstan registered the third win at the Asia Championship in Japan. They prevailed against Singapore to climb at 3-1 record. Kazakhstan now share the top spot in Level II standings together with Indonesia and Malaysia. Tamara Seregina (182-F-90) fired 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the charge. Singapore fell at 1-3 record after the defeat. Kazakhstan jumped to a comfortable lead in the opening quarter. They piled up a 21:5 advantage at the first break. Kazakhstan maintained the lead well throughout the second term. Moreover they boosted the margin to 23 points at the interval 42:19. Things got just worse for Singapore after the main break. Kazakhstan continued to stretch the lead. They ensured a confident 26-point advantage at the final break and never looked back en route to the win. Zalina Kurazova (184-F-85) notched 13 points, while Yulia Korotkaya (175-G-77) added 12 points in the victory. Tan Sarah (173-F-91) answered with 18 points for Singapore. Koh Weibin (165-F-86) delivered 17 points in the loss.

Korea score for the first time more than 100 points against Lebanon - by Maarouf MawloudTwelve-time former champions Korea became the first team to score more than the magical hundred points on Wednesday in their 104-75 win against Level I debutants Lebanon, en route to their fourth win in as many games and as many days to firmly perch themselves on top of the Level I standings.

Kang Ajeong led the Korean scoring spree with 23 points in 8/13 field shooting and Kim Jung Eun (pic above) had 19 points.

Choi Youn-Ah and Kang Young-suk were rested for the entire game as all others played and scored for almost 10 minutes apiece.

Lets look at it like this. Last night was really tough, Korea coach Lim Dal Shik chuckled. So I guess these games even out.

For starters, we didnt take Lebanon lightly. They play a completely different style than what we are normally used, Lim said.

Korea scored the first eight points of the game and only grew in strength as the game progressed.

Heffingen tab Tressa Beckel - by Eurobasket NewsTressa Beckel (182-F) will start her pro career in Luxembourg. She inked a deal with Heffingen. Tressa Beckel graduated from Chicago State University this year. The forward posted 18.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.2 steals, 1.7 assists and 1.6 blocks per game in her senior season. Tressa Beckel led the Cougars to the triumph at GWC Tournament in 2011.

Malaysia earned the third win at the Asia Championship in Japan. They toppled Sri Lanka to improve at 3-1 record in Level II standings. Siew Teng Ang (174-87) scored 11 points to pace the winners. Sri Lanka suffered the fourth straight defeat at the tournament. Malaysia set the tone early. They outgunned Sri Lanka 20:5 in the starting frame. Malaysia stayed in charge throughout the second frame. They established a 37:10 halftime lead. Sri Lanka slowed down their opponents in the third quarter but still could not get any closer. Malaysia entered the fourth quarter up by 30 points. Malaysia never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Beng Fong Goh (165-G-82) accounted for 10 points, while Shin Min Yong (174-F-87) added 9 points for Malaysia. Solange Gunawijeya (91) answered with 9 points. Inoka Juwan Pedige (82) finished with 8 points in the loss.

Summitt went to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., in May. She underwent a series of tests and received a stunning answer. The diagnosis was early onset dementia, Alzheimers type.

Her initial reaction to learning she had a progressive condition that could impair her mental acuity was one of anger and denial. Since then, shes moved forward in more Summitt-like fashion, formulating a plan involving medication and mental activities, such as reading and doing puzzles at night before going to sleep. Shes also taken a hopeful stance about her future.

The 59-year-old Summitt, who has 1,071 career victories and has led UT to eight national championships, is determined to continue coaching and is planning for her 38th season at UT. She has the support of the University administration.

- Reported by Dan Fleser of GoVolsExtra.com.

Dementia is the loss of mental functions - such as thinking, memory, and reasoning - that is severe enough to interfere with a persons daily functioning. Dementia is not a disease itself, but rather a group of symptoms that are caused by various diseases or conditions. Symptoms can also include changes in personality, mood, and behavior. In some cases, the dementia can be treated and cured because the cause is treatable. Examples of this include dementia caused by substance abuse (illicit drugs and alcohol), combinations of prescrption medications, and hormone or vitamin imbalances. In some cases, although the person may appear to have dementia, a severe depression can be causing the symptoms. This is known as pseudo-dementia (false dementia) and is highly treatable. In most cases, however, a true dementia cannot be cured.

Courtesy of www.insidehoops.com

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RUSSIA - Women

Spartak St.Petersburg bring Loginova and Chistyakova - by Eurobasket NewsSpartak St.Petersburg bring Loginova and Chistyakova from Spartak-SHVSM Moscow. Both Russian players will start in the new team in the upcoming season. Anastasiya Loginova (190-C-90) arrived from Spartak-SHVSM Moscow. In 2010-2011 for the team she averaged 8.5ppg, 5.5rpg, FGP: 30.3%, 3PT: 36.8%, FT: 73.3%. Before that in 2006-2007 she started for Dynamo Moscow Region Junior Team and in 2007-2008 joined Gloria Moscow (B Superleague). In November 2009 signed at Spartak-SHVSM Moscow (A Superleague) and in 13 games showed 3.3ppg, 2.2rpg, 1.0bpg. Ekaterina Chistyakova (185-F-89) started her career in 2006-2007 for Dynamo-2 Moscow Region (B Superleague) and in 2007-2008 played for BC Moscow-2 (B Superleague, starting five). In 2008-2009 moved to Spartak-SHVSM Moscow (B Superleague, starting five) and in 2009-2010 averaged 3.5ppg, 2.1rpg. In 2010-2011 for Spartak-SHVSM Moscow (PBL) after 18 games she improved to 4.7ppg, 3.7rpg, 1.1spg.

Kazakhstan registered the third win at the Asia Championship in Japan. They prevailed against Singapore to climb at 3-1 record. Kazakhstan now share the top spot in Level II standings together with Indonesia and Malaysia. Tamara Seregina (182-F-90) fired 27 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the charge. Singapore fell at 1-3 record after the defeat. Kazakhstan jumped to a comfortable lead in the opening quarter. They piled up a 21:5 advantage at the first break. Kazakhstan maintained the lead well throughout the second term. Moreover they boosted the margin to 23 points at the interval 42:19. Things got just worse for Singapore after the main break. Kazakhstan continued to stretch the lead. They ensured a confident 26-point advantage at the final break and never looked back en route to the win. Zalina Kurazova (184-F-85) notched 13 points, while Yulia Korotkaya (175-G-77) added 12 points in the victory. Tan Sarah (173-F-91) answered with 18 points for Singapore. Koh Weibin (165-F-86) delivered 17 points in the loss.

South Korea did not have any difficulties reaching the fourth straight victory - by Eurobasket NewsLebanon-South Korea 75:104

South Korea did not have any difficulties reaching the fourth straight victory at the 24th FIBA Asia Championship for Women in Japan. The team overcame Lebanon 104:75 as the latter remains winless.South Korea was the favorite of the game and proved it from the very beginning. The first period became offensive in the game as the favorites took 34:21 at the end of it. Brittany Denson (192-C-87, college: S.Florida) reduce to 8 points, while Kim Kwe Ryong (190-C-89) brought 59:41. Later closed the half at 16 points difference. South Korea won the third quarter 23-19 and increased to 82:62 after three quarters. The task for the last stanza was to reach three digits and the team easily solved the problem. Kang Ajeong (180-F-89) nailed three for 102: 70 and Kim Jung Eun (180-F-87) was the last to score in the game. Kang Ajeong paced all the winners with 23 points and Kim Jung Eun notched 19. Younhoa LEE scored 15, while Kim Kwe Ryong collected 14 points and 10 rebounds. Brittany Denson replied with 25 points in the losing effort and Nathalie Sevajian (170-G-88) netted 13.

Mann Filter Zaragoza keep Jaklin Zlatanova - by Eurobasket NewsMann Filter Zaragoza keep Jaklin Zlatanova (190-F-88) for the upcoming season. The Bulgarian Forward will remain in Spain.In 2010-2011 for Mann Filter Zaragoza (Spain-LFB, starting five) in EuroCup she averaged 10.2ppg, 6.0rpg, 2.2apg, 1.9spg, 1.0bpg, FGP: 46.3%, 3PT: 22.2%, FT: 73.3%. In Spanish League after 28 games her stats read 7.4ppg, 4.8rpg, 1.8apg, 1.6spg, FGP: 37.9%, 3PT: 27.4%, FT: 69.1%.Before coming to the team, Jaklin Zlatanova already had experience from Spain as she spent few seasons with Extrugasa Vilagarcia and Gran Canaria La Caja de Canarias. She appeared 26 times in LFB averaging 5.4 ppg and 3.3 rpg. In EuroCup, Zlatanova played 8 games registering way better digits: 13.3 ppg and 2.9 rpg. Before Extrugasa, Jaklin Zlatanova played four years for French giant Tarbes Gespe Bigorre. In her last season with the club Zlatanova collected 4.4 ppg and 2.6 rpg in 10 EuroCup Games. In French LFB she had 3.1 ppg and 1.8 rpg.

Alicia Arias joins UNB Obenasa Navarra - by Eurobasket NewsUNB Obenasa Navarra Lacturale continues with signings for the next season. Their latest addition is Spanish power forward/center Alicia Arias (186-F/C-82, agency: Josep and Nicolas). The 29-year-old player signed a deal for the next season. Arias heads to Navarra from Club D.Baloncesto Aros Leon, where she spent 2010/11. For 52 games in LF2 she averaged 6.9 points and 7.2 rebounds. Alicia Arias played for Socinsa Bembibre PDM from 2007 until the last summer. In their last season together she had 3.5 ppg and 3 rpg for 33 games in LF2. In 2008/09, Arias had slightly better numbers. Recently, UNB Obenasa Navarra Lacturale extended their Head Coach Cesar Ruperez for the next season. They also signed players Jovana Rad and Amra Dapo.

Pabellon Ourense lands American forward Stephanie Geehan - by Eurobasket NewsStephanie Geehan (191-F-88, college: Fairfield) will continue her career in Spain. The American forward signed a one-year deal with Pabellon Ourense. She arrives to Ourense from Luxembourg, where she spent last season. Geehan played 22 games for AB Contern averaging 25.1 points, 14.6 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 3.1 steals and 2.3 blocks. He ended as third scorer, third rebounder, second stealer and top blocker of the competition. Eurobasket awarded Geehan with All-Luxembourg League Honorable Mention -11 and she participated at the Luxembourgish Diekirch League All-Star Game -11. Stephanie Geehan is a product of Fairfield University, where she graduated last year. She had 14.8 ppg, 11.4 rpg and 2.3 apg in 34 games as a senior. Stephanie Geehan was named All-MAAC Defensive Player of the Year -10 and also All-MAAC 1st Team -10.

Grupo Marsol Conquero pens deal with Radostina Dimitrova - by Eurobasket NewsGrupo Marsol Conquero signed another player for the upcoming season. The Spanish outfit penned a deal with Bulgarian forward Radostina Dimitrova (185-F-85). The 26-year-old Dimitrova spent last season with Levski Sophia. She had 14.3 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.3 apg and 2 spg for them in 26 NBL games. She helped Levski reach NBL Finals. For her performance Eurobasket awarded Dimitrova with All-Bulgarian League Honorable Mention -11. Radostina Dimitrova is not a new face in Spain. She spent 2009/10 season with CD Irlandesas Leioa. For 51 games in LF2 she had 7.8 ppg and 2.3 rpg. Before that, Radistinova was a member of Burgos and Viaonetti Vinaroz. They also competed in LF2. Radostina Dimitrova won the Bulgarian league title and National Cup with CSKA Sofia in 2007. They also were Adriatic league champions that season.

Malaysia earned the third win at the Asia Championship in Japan. They toppled Sri Lanka to improve at 3-1 record in Level II standings. Siew Teng Ang (174-87) scored 11 points to pace the winners. Sri Lanka suffered the fourth straight defeat at the tournament. Malaysia set the tone early. They outgunned Sri Lanka 20:5 in the starting frame. Malaysia stayed in charge throughout the second frame. They established a 37:10 halftime lead. Sri Lanka slowed down their opponents in the third quarter but still could not get any closer. Malaysia entered the fourth quarter up by 30 points. Malaysia never looked back afterwards cruising to the victory at the end. Beng Fong Goh (165-G-82) accounted for 10 points, while Shin Min Yong (174-F-87) added 9 points for Malaysia. Solange Gunawijeya (91) answered with 9 points. Inoka Juwan Pedige (82) finished with 8 points in the loss.

China improved to 3-1 record in Level I after the win over Chinese Taipei. Nan Chen led China to 72:63 victory as Chinese Taipei is tied with 2-2 record. Both teams started well and only few points separated them in the first period. China took 18:16 after the first 10 minutes, while Yi-Hung MA reduced to 33:32 at the halftime. Chinese Taipei could stay on race and failed in the third quarter. Ma Zengyu (183-F-84) scored for 51:41 and China led 55:48 after 30 minutes. Wan-Ting LI remained her team alive at 55:53 and then Lin Chi-Wen (186-C-83) scored for 57:55, but Lijie MIAO and Chen Nan (197-C-83) scored for 64:57. China won the last stanza and celebrated 72:63 victory. Chen Nan top-scored for the winners with 24 points and 10 rebounds, while Zhang Fan (188-F-84) nailed 10. Lijie MIAO and Ma Zengyu posted 9 points each. Lan Jui-Yu (170-G-83) replied with 12 points in defeat, whilst Liu Chun-Yi (180-F/C-81) and Lin Chi-Wen had 10 apiece.

Indonesia posted a crucial win in the fight for top two positions in Level II group of Asia Championship. They held off Uzbekistan to improve at 3-1 record on top of the standings. Uzbekistan suffered the second loss in a row. Wulan Ningrum (174-G/F-85) stepped up with 20 points to pace the winners. Indonesia enjoyed a narrow 17:14 lead after ten minutes. They stretched the lead in the second quarter. Uzbekistan scored just 7 points in the period to face a 14-point deficit at halftime 21:35. But the Uzbek team revived the intrigue in the third term. They narrowed the margin at two points 48:50 at the final intermission. Yelena Khusnitdinova (85) levelled things up at 57 midway through the fourth period. But Indonesia pulled back in front and hung on to escape with a narrow win at the end. Jacklien Ibo (175-F-90) posted 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Yunita Sugianto (167-PG-87) added 7 points in the victory. Yelena Khusnitdinova responded with 19 points for Uzbekistan. Guzal Burieva (89) had 11 points in the loss.

Latest WNBA games - by Eurobasket NewsPhoenix M. - New York L. 70-74Cappie Pondexter (5'9''-G-83, college: Rutgers) scored 17 of her 25 points in the fourth quarter and Nicole Powell (6'2''-G/F-82, college: Stanford) added 16 points to help New York rally for its third win in six games. The Mercury got the ball with 12.7 seconds remaining but Penny Taylor missed a long 3-point attempt and Pondexter made a free throw on the other end for the Liberty, who trailed by six points with 6 minutes left. Candice Dupree led the Mercury with 17 points and seven rebounds, and Taylor had 14 points and nine rebounds. The Mercury were without leading scorer Diana Taurasi, who sat out with back spasms. *Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Seattle S. - S.Antonio SS 63-55Tanisha Wright (5'11''-G-83, agency: LBM Management, college: Penn St.) had 16 points and Lauren Jackson (6'5''-F/C-81) scored six of her 13 in the fourth quarter to lead Seattle. Sue Bird and Camille Little added 12 points each for Seattle (15-12), which moved 1 1/2 games ahead of the Silver Stars for third place in the Western Conference. Sophia Young scored 14 and Jia Perkins 11 to lead San Antonio (13-13), which dropped its fourth straight and is just 1 1/2 games ahead of Los Angeles for the fourth and final playoff berth in the West. Bird become the 16th WNBA player to reach 4,000 points. *Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Washington M. - L.Angeles S. 82-86 OTCandace Parker (6'4''-F/C-86, college: Tennessee) scored 19 points, including the go-ahead basket with 38.9 seconds remaining in overtime, to help the Los Angeles Sparks beat the Washington Mystics 86-82 on Tuesday night. Tina Thompson (6'2''-F-75, college: USC) finished with 15 points and 10 rebounds for the Sparks (12-15), winners of two straight and three of five since Parker returned from a torn lateral meniscus in her right knee on August 16. The lead changed six times in the extra session, the final time coming when Parker slithered through the Mystics defense for a layup to put the Sparks ahead 81-80. Matee Ajavon missed a layup on the Mystics next possession before Parker and Tina Thompson, combined to sink five of six free throws to seal the victory. *Courtesy of www.kxnet.com

Tulsa S. - Minnesota L. 72-78Taj McWilliams-Franklin (6'3''-F/C-70, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: St.Edward's) scored 18 points to lead the Minnesota Lynx to a 78-72 win over Tulsa on Tuesday night, extending the Shock's WNBA record to 19 straight losses. McWilliams-Franklin blocked Ivory Latta's jumper in the lane with 19.1 seconds remaining to help Minnesota hold off a late rally. Lindsay Whalen (5'8''-G-82, college: Minnesota) scored 14 points, Amber Harris had 13 and Seimone Augustus chipped in 12 for the Lynx. Amber Holt scored 18 points, Tiffany Jackson added 13, and Sheryl Swoopes and Latta each scored 10 for the Shock, who fell to 1-24 this season. Tulsa trailed only 55-50 after three quarters but stumbled through two brief yet costly scoring droughts in the fourth. The Lynx broke off a 7-2 run to pull away and scored five unanswered points later in the quarter for a 12-point lead. *Courtesy of www.sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Chicago S. - Atlanta D. 80-83Angel McCoughtry (6'1''-F-86, college: Louisville) scored 22 points, including a pair of free throws with 2.5 seconds left, to lead Atlanta. Lindsey Harding (5'8''-G-84, college: Duke) added 15 points for the Dream (14-13), who opened a two-game led on the Sky (12-15) for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference with seven to play. Sylvia Fowles hit a turnaround jumper to give Chicago an 80-79 lead with 6.3 seconds left, but McCoughtry was fouled on the ensuing possession by Michelle Snow and hit the game-winners. Fowles had 20 points and 12 rebounds, and reserve Shay Murphy added 16 points for the Sky. Erika DeSouza scored 13 points and Sancho Lyttle added 12 for Atlanta. *Courtesy of http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com

Indiana F. - Washington M. 83-51Katie Douglas (6'1''-G/F-79, college: Purdue) scored 15 points and had five rebounds to lead the Indiana Fever over the Washington Mystics 83-51 on Sunday. Jessica Davenport (6'5''-C-85, college: Ohio St.) scored 14 points and had five rebounds and Tamika Catchings (6'1''-F-79, college: Tennessee) scored 13 points with eight rebounds for the Fever, who lead the Eastern Conference by two games. The Fever limited the Mystics to 35.2 percent shooting and forced 19 turnovers. The 51-point performance is the third-lowest total in the league this season and Indiana's 31-point victory margin was the second-largest. 'Our defense was very disruptive,' Fever coach Lin Dunn said. 'We spent lots of energy with our press. It was a good win over a good team.' Douglas broke out of a slump with her most points since scoring 20 on July 13. 'You're just going to have up and down moments and thankfully I was able to get on track tonight,' Douglas said. 'I was just happy we were able to have such a big win and I think we were doing some great things on the defensive end and on the offensive end. When we start playing well on both ends of the floor, we're a hard team to beat.' Crystal Langhorne (6'2''-F/C-86, college: Maryland) scored 11 points and had seven rebounds and Jasmine Thomas scored 11 points for the Mystics, who have lost five straight games. The Fever improved to 4-0 this season against Washington, racing to a 14-2 lead to start the game and building a 79-47 lead at one point late in the fourth quarter. 'They totally outplayed us,' Langhorne said. 'We have lost games, but this one was bad. We need to play harder and not turn the ball over. Things weren't pretty.' Courtesy of www.signonsandiego.com

Tulsa S. - L.Angeles S. 67-73Candace Parker scored 23 points and the Los Angeles Sparks ran off 16 straight points to overcome a 15-point, second-half deficit and hand the Tulsa Shock their WNBA-record 18th consecutive loss with a 73-67 victory on Sunday night. Delisha Milton-Jones (6'1''-F-74, agency: Josep and Nicolas, college: Florida) added 15 points and Kristi Toliver (5'7''-G-87, college: Maryland) had 14 for the Sparks. WNBA career scoring leader Tina Thompson scored all of her eight points in the second half. For the first 22 minutes of the game, Tulsa took advantage of the jet-lagged Sparks, who played in Minnesota on Saturday and flew to Tulsa on Sunday, building a 39-24 lead with 7:01 to play in the third stanza. But the Sparks outscored the home team 38-20 over the final 17 minutes to post just their fourth road victory of the season. Courtesy of www.kxnet.com

Sophia Young reaches 3,000-point plateau - by Eurobasket NewsSan Antonio Silver Stars forward Sophia Young (6'1''-F-83, college: Baylor) scored her 3,000th career point on Tuesday night in a 55-63 loss to the Seattle Storm at KeyArena. Young finished with team-best 14 points on the night, scoring her 3000th point on a bank shot from the baseline in the second quarter.

Young is the 37th player in league history to reach the 3,000 point plateau and the first in San Antonio history. She is the third player from the 2006 draft class to reach 3,000 points, following New York's Cappie Pondexter and Minnesota's Seimone Augustus.

A five-time WNBA All-Star, Young holds four additional San Antonio career records including minutes played (6,184), field goals made (1,138), free throws made (682) and steals (307). She also ranks second in games played (190), games started (191) and total rebounds (1,192). The Caribbean native is the fastest player in franchise history to score 2,000 points, doing so in only 125 career games. She entered the season ranked 13th all-time on the WNBA scoring list with a 15.9 career points per game average.

Young currently ranks second on the Silver Stars with 14.0 points per game while leading the team with 6.9 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game in 2011. She is averaging 15.7 points per game for her six season career. Young was originally selected by the Silver Stars with the fourth overall pick in the 2006 WNBA Draft out of Baylor University.